On the topic of diversity and inclusion, the fashion industry has certainly come a long way. The recent fashion month achieved a significant milestone in age representation, with approximately 75% of the top shows in Paris and Milan showcasing at least one older model. Even the biggest names in fashion were not left out of the loop, with Miu Miu and Balmain advocating for age inclusivity by casting models past their prime.
Olivier Rousteing, Creative Director of Balmain aims to amend the industry’s harmful approach of solely celebrating beauty centred on youthfulness. At Balmain’s Fall/Winter 2024 show, 20 out of 57 models were aged 35 and above.
Meanwhile, Miu Miu’s Fall/Winter 2024 show took us through different stages of a woman’s life, showcasing models of diverse age demographics. Among all the models who graced the catwalk, including British Actress Kristin Scott Thomas (63), Supermodel Gigi Hadid (28), and Singer Ethel Cain (25), it was Dr Qin Huilan (70), who truly stole the spotlight.
Dr Qin Huilan is a doctor-turned-fashion influencer from Shanghai, China. Her gateway into the fashion world began last year when her son created an Instagram account for her. Dr Qin began posting pictures of her impeccably stylish outfits on the app which subsequently caught the eye of Miuccia Prada who invited her to the show, not as a spectator but as a model. As a long-time patron of Miu Miu and Prada, receiving an invitation from Miu Miu was a momentous opportunity for her.
Despite it being her runway debut, Dr Qin channelled the unparalleled confidence of a veteran supermodel. She donned a boxy grey wool coat adorned with silver brooches, complemented by a brown handbag and black Mary Janes. The look was tied together with a grey neck scarf and a pair of patterned gloves, exuding an air of timeless grace and sophistication.
Dr Qin’s style can be described as bold and playful. She is often photographed in a kaleidoscope of colours, flamboyant prints, bold statement heels and head-turning accessories that leave us in awe of her sartorial prowess. She aptly demonstrates that style doesn’t have an expiration date, a sentiment that has been closely embraced by Miuccia Prada who is at the helm of not just one but two Italian luxury fashion houses at the age of 74.
I’m sure we’ve all had moments where we were overly concerned about what our family, friends or even strangers on the street would think about our outfit, eventually deciding against wearing it. Perhaps we’ve even experienced the embarrassment of being told we’re dressing too young or too old for our age. For Dr Qin, the judgement stemming from her flamboyant outfits doesn’t faze her. The notion of age-appropriate clothing doesn’t exist in her dictionary and she refuses to let social norms dictate her way of life.
After an eventful night at Paris Fashion Week, Dr Qin shared a heartfelt message on Instagram detailing her journey as a model. Despite the language barrier and hectic schedule, Dr Qin managed to put on a good show, declaring that “I took action to prove that age is not a problem!”
Regardless of your age, Dr Qin’s story will hopefully inspire those either pursuing their dreams or simply seeking the freedom to dress however they please.