Christina Chung: Hong Kong Model Defying Age at Chanel Show
A Trailblazing Model at 59: Christina Chung’s Journey to the Runway
Paris Haute Couture Week kicked off on January 26, marking the unveiling of spring/summer 2026 collections from some of the world's most prestigious fashion houses. Among the standout moments was Matthieu Blazy's debut as Chanel's creative director. The show, held at the Grand Palais, drew an impressive array of celebrities, including Nicole Kidman, Dua Lipa, and A$AP Rocky. The collection featured fluid silhouettes, romantic hues, and intricate craftsmanship, all inspired by the concept of avian freedom.
Blazy explained his inspiration, saying, “I was interested in birds because they are free, because they travel, because they come from every place. I thought it was a beautiful metaphor for women today.” This theme resonated through the diverse lineup of models, which included rising stars like Alex Consani and Bhavitha Mandava, as well as seasoned models such as Stephanie Cavalli and Laura Ponte. However, one model stood out—Christina Chung, who turned 60 this year.
Who is Christina Chung?
Born in 1966, Christina Chung comes from a family of Chiu Chow descent, with roots in Swatow, China. Her parents moved to Hong Kong in the 1940s, where she grew up with seven siblings. As the fifth child and the youngest girl, her early life was marked by challenges. She shared with the South China Morning Post that her father was abusive, once dousing her in kerosene and throwing a match at her. Despite these hardships, she attended St Paul's Secondary School before leaving home at 16 to escape the violence.
She found work at a paging company while attending another school, but her path took a different turn when she discovered her natural talent for modeling. "I was lucky to be born looking like I do," she said, adding that she was "just blessed" to be tall. Though she had opportunities in her 20s, including a commercial for American Express, she found the industry to be unappealing. "I signed up for catwalk training and after the first lesson someone asked for sex. Dirty business. I was really scared and left right away," she recalled.
A New Chapter in Modeling
After working as a personal assistant to a headhunter at the Bank of America Tower, Chung eventually returned to modeling in her 50s. Her journey took a new direction when she became a mother. In 1991, she had her first child, a daughter, with an ex-boyfriend. Unfortunately, she lost custody of her child due to her ex's gambling problem.
In 1994, she met Hylas Chung, whom she married. "Meeting my husband was the best thing that happened to me; he's my inspiration and my role model in many things," she said. Together, they welcomed six more daughters, two of whom—Chloe and Ciara—encouraged their mother to pursue modeling again. Their support helped Chung find her way back to the runway, where she now stands as a symbol of resilience and beauty.
A Legacy of Strength and Inspiration
Christina Chung’s story is one of perseverance and reinvention. From overcoming a difficult childhood to becoming a mother of seven, and finally finding success in the modeling world later in life, she has become a beacon of strength for many. Her presence on the runway at Paris Haute Couture Week not only highlights her personal achievements but also serves as a powerful reminder that age is just a number.
Her journey reflects the evolving narrative of fashion, where diversity and experience are increasingly celebrated. Chung’s inclusion in Blazy’s collection underscores the importance of representing a wide range of voices and backgrounds in the industry. As she continues to inspire others, her story remains a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing change at any stage of life.
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