Kara NasvigThe intersection of Hollywood glamour and high fashion is nothing new. Over the years, numerous celebrities have swapped the glitz and glamour of the red carpet for the thrill of the runway, often bringing their star power to the fashion world. Here’s a look at some memorable moments when celebrities became runway models, seamlessly blending the worlds of film, music, and high fashion.
1. Rihanna
Rihanna has become a fashion icon, not just for her bold style choices but also for her influence in the industry. She has walked in numerous fashion shows, including her own Savage X Fenty show, which revolutionizes the concept of inclusivity and diversity in lingerie. Her appearances are not just modeling moments but performances, combining music, dance, and fashion in a spectacular showcase.
2. Kanye West
Though more known for his music and fashion design, Kanye West has also stepped onto the runway. In 2011, he debuted his fashion line, DW by Kanye West, during Paris Fashion Week. While he didn’t model the clothes himself, his influence and presence were felt strongly throughout the event, highlighting the crossover between his musical and fashion endeavors.
3. Zendaya
Zendaya, a formidable force in both acting and fashion, made headlines when she walked the runway for the Tommy Hilfiger x Zendaya collection during Paris Fashion Week in 2019. Her show was celebrated for its 1970s-inspired theme and for featuring an all-black cast of models of varying ages and sizes, showcasing her commitment to diversity and representation in fashion.
4. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s boundary-pushing style made her a natural fit for the runway. In 2011, she walked for Thierry Mugler during Paris Fashion Week. Gaga’s dramatic presence, complete with towering heels and avant-garde outfits, captivated audiences and solidified her status as a fashion trailblazer.
5. Justin Bieber
In 2015, Justin Bieber made a surprise appearance at Kanye West’s Yeezy Season 3 show during New York Fashion Week. Bieber, already a style icon for many of his fans, brought his star power to the runway, blending his music persona with high fashion.
6. Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton, a mainstay in both the celebrity and fashion worlds, has walked the runway for numerous designers over the years. Notably, she closed the show for The Blonds during New York Fashion Week in 2020, proving her enduring appeal and versatility in fashion.
7. Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian made her runway debut at the Balenciaga show during Paris Fashion Week in 2022. Known for her influential style and fashion-forward thinking, Kardashian’s appearance was a significant moment, reflecting her deep ties to the fashion industry.
8. Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus brought her unique style to the Marc Jacobs runway during New York Fashion Week in 2020. Her edgy look and confident strut highlighted her transformation from a Disney star to a bold fashion icon.
9. Cara Delevingne
While Cara Delevingne is now more famous for her acting, she initially gained fame as a model. She has walked for top designers like Chanel, Burberry, and Dolce & Gabbana. Her transition from the runway to the red carpet showcases her versatility and wide-ranging talent.
10. Naomi Campbell
A legendary supermodel, Naomi Campbell has also taken her star power to the world of acting. While she continues to dominate the runway, her forays into film and television highlight the fluidity between the two worlds.
The Impact of Celebrities on Fashion Shows
Celebrities bring a unique blend of charisma, fan following, and media attention to the runway. Their involvement in fashion shows often generates significant buzz, elevates the profile of the designers they walk for, and sometimes even overshadows the clothes themselves. This symbiotic relationship benefits both parties, with celebrities gaining fashion credibility and designers reaching wider audiences.
Conclusion
The crossover between the red carpet and the runway underscores the interconnectedness of entertainment and fashion. Celebrities’ ventures onto the runway are not mere gimmicks; they reflect their genuine influence and passion for fashion. As the boundaries between these worlds continue to blur, we can expect to see more stars strutting their stuff on the catwalk, blending star power with high fashion in captivating ways.
