After seven years of abstinence from the catwalk, supermodel Heidi Klum (51) returns to the catwalk at Paris Fashion Week – with an important message. As part of L’Oréal Paris’ “Le Défilé” show, she walks alongside other powerful women for more female empowerment. She understands this to mean “that women have the freedom and self-confidence to pursue their dreams”, but also “that they need to support and strengthen each other”, as she explains in an interview. She also reveals her plans for Paris – and beyond.
Dear Heidi, you are celebrating your catwalk comeback here in Paris. Can you still remember your last appearance on the catwalk, how long ago was that?
Heidi Klum: The last time I was on the catwalk was in 2017 for Naomi Campbell’s “Fashion for Relief – Charity Event”. After more than seven years, it’s time again – I’m very happy to set a significant example for diversity, feminism and self-determination alongside many other powerful women.
Do you still fondly remember your time as a Victoria’s Secret Angel?
Klum: I fondly remember the gigantic angel wings and the lingerie that was set with diamonds worth millions. I always had a lot of fun. Tyra Banks, Alessandra Ambrosio, Gisele Bündchen and Adriana Lima – we were like a small family and we are all still in touch today.
How nervous were you before your performance?
Klum: I have to admit that I’m always nervous when presenting live shows. But I feel very confident on the catwalk – unless the shoes are a disaster (laughs). So I’m really looking forward to it!
With the seventh catwalk show “Le Défilé”, L’Oréal Paris is once again celebrating female empowerment – what exactly is female empowerment for you?
Klum: For me, female empowerment means that women have the freedom and self-confidence to pursue their dreams, show their strengths and stand up for themselves – regardless of external expectations or social norms. It’s about supporting one another and becoming stronger together. That’s exactly what we’re celebrating with “Le Défilé”: The iconic catwalk show offers a stage for diversity and celebrates strength, individuality and beauty with the utmost pride.
In your opinion, what characteristics characterize a strong woman?
Klum: For me, a strong woman is characterized by the fact that she recognizes her self-worth and lives it: “I am Worth It!” That she fights courageously for her beliefs and does not let obstacles stop her. But she should not be alone in this. It is important that we women support and strengthen one another.
Paris Fashion Week runs until October 1st, will you be able to attend some shows yourself?
Klum: Yes, there are a few nice dates planned. I also love the city very much. I have been coming to Paris for modeling jobs for over 30 years. Now I am looking forward to a week of Fashion Week and to experiencing the city in all its glamorous hustle and bustle.
Your legendary Halloween party is fast approaching. Can you tell us a few details?
Klum: It will be iconic!
What other plans do you have for the coming year?
Klum: The twentieth season of “GNTM” is just around the corner, we’ll be filming for four months. There are thousands of applicants and I spent the whole summer looking at all the candidates. Now I’m looking forward to meeting many of them in person. Then the premiere of my first commercial for L’Oréal Paris on TV is coming up soon – it’s going to be an exciting time!
