"For me, 70 years old is a new beginning." 

Dressed in a stylish grey coat and sleek black heels, Qin Huilan, a 70-year-old retired doctor from Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, walked the runway during the 2024 Paris Fashion Week. Despite not being a professional model, her inner confidence and composure radiated forth, earning her a round of applause. From a small-town clinic to the catwalk, Qin's miraculous story represents her relentless pursuit of her dreams and passion. 

Qin Huilan makes a stunning appearance at Paris Fashion Week. (Photo provided to People's Daily)

Fashion icon emerges

"Fashion was never part of my life before," Qin admitted. 

After graduating from Guangxi Medical University, Qin devoted decades to her career as a doctor. Influenced by the demands of her profession, her wardrobe favored practicality and comfort over style.

In 2022, she and her husband moved to Shanghai to live near their youngest son, which marked the beginning of her unexpected yet fulfilling second career in the world of fashion. 

"The weather turned cooler and I hadn't brought enough warm clothes, so I began wearing my son's clothes," Qin explained. 

Qin Huilan and her son wear the same leather jacket. (Photo provided to People's Daily)

Encouraged by her son, she launched a social media account named "Aunt Qin's Daily Outfit with Her Son's Clothes." This account quickly carved out a unique fashion niche. Whether she's dressed in suits or trench coats, Qin showcased each outfit with remarkable flair, quickly attracting a large following.

"Her gray hair, upright posture, and sense of style – all look fantastic," commented one follower.

Parisian dream unfolds

In February, Qin received an unexpected invitation email from a well-known international fashion brand, which started her modeling journey in Paris. 

"I did my best to calm my nerves backstage and just focused on my walk. I kept my mind clear, and everything went smoothly," Qin recounted.

During the fashion show, Qin stood out with a unique stride among the professional models. Many viewers praised her graceful poise and assurance after viewing her runway video.

"Who would have imagined that I'd be here at 70? This is Paris, and this is me at 70!" she said joyfully.

Qin Huilan prepares backstage for the fashion show. (Photo provided to People's Daily)

As a member of the Zhuang ethnic group, Qin also incorporates elements of ethnic flair into her outfits along with contemporary styles. 

"I love using vibrant, saturated colors and embroidered patches to showcase our traditional attire," she explained. 

Qin Huilan shows off traditional Zhuang ethnic attire from Guangxi. (Photo provided to People's Daily)

Eco-chic journey continues

In her social media bio, Qin outlines her fashion philosophy as "sustainable and age-free outfits," underscoring her dedication to eco-friendly fashion that transcends age.

Qin Huilan stylishly wears her son's overcoat from nine years ago. (Photo provided to People's Daily)

By repurposing her husband and son's clothes, Qin taps into and displays the unique charm of sustainable fashion. 

"Fashion has nothing to do with how old you are. Age is merely a number," she also said. 

Looking ahead, Qin is committed to living life to its fullest and encourages others to do the same. "Prioritize your health and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Pursue your dreams boldly and fearlessly." 

Going from a retired doctor to a fashion model on an international runway, Qin embodies the numerous possibilities that life presents. Her message to the world is clear and touching: Embrace life with vigor and never stop pursuing what brings you true happiness.