Luxury isn’t solely reserved for Gen Z anymore—it’s staging a rewind. The fashion scene is experiencing a profound shift, turning its gaze back in time.
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It’s transcending generational boundaries, now encompassing not only young content creators and emerging celebrities but also steadfast brand enthusiasts. These individuals, who may be considered old-fashioned in age, are true collectors at heart. They proudly showcase their carefully curated high-end wardrobes adorned with iconic pieces. With an air of ease and unmatched confidence, they effortlessly exude a sense of individuality that sets them apart from the crowd.
Looks from the latest Miu Miu runway show at Paris Fashion Week for Women's Fall-Winter 2024/25. Courtesy Of Miu Miu
Miuccia Prada turned heads once again with her latest Miu Miu spectacle at Paris Fashion Week Fall-Winter 2024-25. But what’s the buzz all about? She shattered norms by inviting Qin Huilan, a distinguished 70-year-old doctor from Shanghai and a revered client of the Prada group brands, to grace the catwalk.
Shanghai-based 70-year-old doctor Qin Huilan strutting down the Miu Miu Fall-Winter 2024/25 catwalk at Paris Fashion Week. Courtesy of Miu Miu
Indeed, ‘girlishness’ is a term ripe for revaluation. Once tethered to gender and age, it now beckons to be embraced as a universal expression of rebellion, freedom, and individuality—an attribute transcending boundaries and belonging to a richer collective. Long perceived as an inherent facet of Miu Miu, it warrants scrutiny not merely as a standalone trait but rather as a foundational element of a broader temperament.
Finale at the Miu Miu show during Paris Fashion Week for Women's Fall-Winter 2024/25. Courtesy of Miu Miu
“For me, turning 70 is a new beginning,” shared Qin Huilan on her IG profile @i_doctor_qin. “Ever since my son helped me register an Instagram account, and taught me how to post and communicate on it, I seem to have opened the door to a new world. Friends from all over the world have left me comments and likes. They appreciate my outfits and leave me messages. Some fashion accounts forward my pictures, hoping more people can see me—a 70-year-old lady from Shanghai, China, who likes to wear Miu Miu and Prada. And one day, I received a catwalk invitation from Miu Miu on my Instagram! From the private message to the official invitation letter, it only took a few days. It’s true, I was officially invited to participate in the Miu Miu Fall-Winter 2024/25 show.”
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The ‘new’ Miu Miu model continued: “Next, I managed to tackle the preparation work challenge in an intense schedule, using Google Translate to overcome the language barrier. I took action to prove that age is not a problem! Thank you, thank you to all the team members for giving me the opportunity to challenge myself; Thank you, thank you to every stranger in Paris who smiled at me and cheered me on.”
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Then, Qin Huilan concluded: “Therefore, I also want to encourage everyone who is confused at a certain point to never give up on your dreams! Before the age of 70, I only cared about my patients as a doctor. Who would have thought that at the age of 70, I would be standing here on the runway today? Come on! Look! This is Paris! Look! This is Miu Miu’s runway! Look! This is 70-year-old Qin.”
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With a determined stride, she commanded attention at the Miu Miu FW24 show. Clad in pointed ballet flats, she effortlessly showcased a long grey double-breasted coat adorned with voluminous silver flowers, complemented by oversized biker gloves, a scarf, and a petite brown leather bag. It defined a poignant and profound moment—not just for her but for all of us witnessing her elegant presence.
Angelo Ruggeri
Journalist, Master’s Programme Tutor & Fashion Styling Course Leader, Milan