“Literally on my street!” Young model’s catwalk dream in the shadow of Chanel show

In Manchester this week, Phoebe's childhood playground has transformed into the backstage of Chanel's Metiers D'art show.

Written by Thom Bamford
Last updated 5 months ago
City of Manchester, Community, Fashion & Beauty, Greater Manchester, People

A young model’s dreams collide with the glitz and glamour of the fashion world as the prestigious Chanel Metiers D’art show descends upon her very street.

Phoebe, a Mancunian model, is not just witnessing the major fashion event from her doorstep; she’s dreaming of one day gracing the runway herself.

Living in the shadow of where Chanel’s show will take place, Phoebe’s story unfolds against the backdrop of the courtyard now transformed into Chanel’s backstage area.

This space, once her childhood playground, witnessed her first steps, bicycle rides, and roller-skating adventures.

Phoebe’s Modelling Journey

Her modelling journey began with local showcases like Skate Manchester and MOSI socials, where her talent shone brightly.

But it was the massive poster in the window of Aldi Ancoats and the electric billboard near the Arena, capturing Phoebe enjoying chips, that catapulted her into the public eye, making her a recognisable face in the city.

Speaking to I Love Manchester, she said: “I’m super excited that the Chanel event is on my street because the Chanel catwalk has been to Tokyo and Paris and now it’s in my courtyard and literally on my street!

“It is also very inspiring because I want to be a model and fashion designer when I grow up so it’s amazing to have Chanel models and fashion designers on the street where I live.

“I find it cool but sometimes a bit strange and surprising if I see my face in shops, especially when I went to Asda and saw my face on all the trolleys eating chips.

“It’s a bit unusual but I like getting out and about and usually the shoots are great fun.”

The Chanel Metiers D’art

Now, as the Metiers D’art show sets up its marquees in Phoebe’s courtyard, she is daring to dream big,

Pheobe said; ” love modelling because you get to try on fancy clothes and be the first to wear them.

“I think everyone should do what they enjoy and for me that’s fashion!

“I would love to model for Chanel because I love the story of Coco Chanel and the actual clothes look amazing. and super fancy.”

Chanel’s Victoria Baths Fashion Show

The very ground where she once played is becoming part of a high-fashion spectacle, and the Victoria Baths, a venue for the after-show festivities, holds a special place in her heart as a location where she’s performed with school choirs.

As the fashion world turns its gaze to Manchester, we can’t help but wonder: Will Phoebe be the next Manchester supermodel?

Only time will tell, but for now, she continues to inspire those who dream of a future where local roots meet international runways.

Why Manchester for the Chanel Show?

Manchester has been chosen because it is “one of the most effervescent cities of pop culture and an avant-garde one, whose bands, spanning all genres, have changed the history of music”, Chanel has said.

Apart from discussing the weather, the prevalent topic of conversation revolves around the anticipated celebrity attendees.

Pharrell Williams, Lily-Rose Depp, and Kristen Stewart have frequently graced the Metiers d’Art in recent editions, establishing themselves as regulars.

Joining the roster of Chanel brand ambassadors are newcomers Timothee Chalamet and Riley Keough.

The prospect of former Manchester residents, David and Victoria Beckham, making an appearance is widely anticipated.

Speculative suggestions also extend to global icons such as Beyonce and Kim Kardashian, along with hometown heroes like Liam Gallagher and Gail from Coronation Street.

There are a lot of what-ifs surrounding tomorrow’s event – but we’d like to wish everyone involved good luck and celebrate what an incredible showcase for this city.

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