‘It shows that age is just a number’ | Chanel casts 50+ Jamaican model and Old Harbour Bay native Romae Gordon

The milestone places Gordon among a select group of models chosen to represent Haute Couture, an elite category of fashion recognized worldwide for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence. Chanel’s runway is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious platforms in the global fashion industry.

Gordon’s modelling journey began years ago and has taken her across Europe, Africa, and the United States. She made history as the first Jamaican to appear on the cover of a British magazine, Slimmer. After pausing her modelling career for approximately 30 years, Gordon has made a powerful return to the fashion world, reinforcing the idea that age is no barrier to global opportunity.

Her younger sister, Deeg Gordon, echoed that sentiment. “She is a woman in her 50s and getting these kinds of opportunities — that’s a big deal. It shows that age is just a number,” she tells Old Harbour News.

Gordon’s return to international fashion has been marked by a series of major achievements. In September 2025, she walked in Dario Vitale’s debut for Versace during Milan Fashion Week, followed months later by her appearance on the Chanel Haute Couture runway in Paris.

In an industry often dominated by youth, Gordon’s casting signals a broader shift in how beauty and relevance are being defined on global runways. Her selection reflects a growing appreciation for models whose life experiences bring depth, authenticity, and narrative to the collections they represent.

Deeg Gordon explained that Chanel’s selection of her sister went beyond traditional modelling standards.

“They wanted someone who has lived life, created a family, has children… not just models with youthful, aspirational look,” she said. “They wanted someone dynamic, complex, and with a lot to offer. That’s my sister.”

Gordon’s achievement carries special meaning for Old Harbour Bay and the wider St Catherine community, as her success demonstrates that international recognition can emerge from local roots and at any stage of life. As one of the most influential figures in the modelling industry in the region, her journey challenges long-held ideas about age, beauty, and opportunity in the creative industries.

For her family, the pride is unmistakable for the former Pulse Investment director. “Myself and the rest of the family are very happy and proud of her. When she got called, she was very excited for the opportunity and so were we, seeing her walk was even more sensational,” Deeg Gordon said, adding that greater things are still to come.

Gordon’s appearance on the Chanel Haute Couture runway signals a broader shift in how global fashion is defining beauty, relevance and experience. From Old Harbour Bay to Paris, her journey reflects the growing recognition of models whose life experience adds depth and meaning to the runway — proving that opportunity is not bound by age or timeline.