From Lagos to Paris: How Street Model Rachel Ojuromi Made Her Chanel Runway Debut

What began as creative fashion videos on the streets of Lagos has become an extraordinary success story for model Rachel Ojuromi, who recently made her runway debut for luxury fashion house Chanel at Paris Fashion Week.

On October 5, 2026, the 22-year-old walked the runway at the Grand Palais in Paris, showcasing a design from Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2027 collection under the creative direction of Matthieu Blazy.

It was a remarkable achievement for a young woman who, just months earlier, had been recreating high-fashion looks in everyday Lagos locations.

Known on social media as @giverachelashot, Ojuromi gained attention through striking fashion videos created alongside her friend and stylist Debby Fasingha and photographer Odey Ikpä.

Rather than waiting for an opportunity on an international runway, she turned ordinary streets, markets and public spaces into her own fashion stage.

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Wearing creatively styled outfits, many assembled from thrifted clothing and pieces in her wardrobe, she confidently recreated the atmosphere of luxury fashion shows.

Her breakthrough came when she recreated looks inspired by Chanel’s 2026 Métiers d’Art collection.

The videos gained widespread attention online and eventually caught the eye of Chanel’s artistic director, Matthieu Blazy, opening the door to an opportunity that would change her modelling career.

Ojuromi’s journey was not without challenges. Before receiving international recognition, she had faced rejection from modelling scouts.

Interestingly, modelling was not even her original career ambition. She once dreamed of becoming a neurosurgeon before pursuing film and eventually finding her place in fashion.

Her appearance at Paris Fashion Week was therefore more than a professional breakthrough. It represented years of creativity, persistence and determination coming together on one of fashion’s biggest stages.

Walking for Chanel also marked her first major runway appearance, making the achievement even more significant.

For someone who had previously admired the luxury brand from Lagos, being selected to showcase its collection in Paris was an emotional milestone.

Ojuromi’s story is drawing attention to the growing influence of young African creatives in the global fashion industry.

Her rise demonstrates how originality, social media and resourcefulness can create opportunities beyond traditional industry connections.

From walking through Lagos markets in recreated designer outfits to stepping onto the Chanel runway in Paris, Rachel Ojuromi has achieved something remarkable.

Her journey is a reminder that sometimes, the road to the world’s biggest stages begins on the streets closest to home.