Influencers join as showstoppers at 'Bridal Couture Week' and the internet is divided
HUM Bridal Couture Week took place in Lahore this week, but discussions this season extended beyond the collections to the people chosen for the final walk. Alongside film and television celebrities such as Saba Qamar and Mawra Hocane, for the first time, high-profile content creators Ken and Jannat Mirza have also appeared as showstoppers for major designers. This has prompted debate on social media over whether these roles should go to trained runway models or to public figures who draw large online audiences.
Critics argue that fashion week’s purpose is to spotlight garments and craftsmanship, and that trained models are better equipped to maintain that focus. Content creators as 'showstoppers' lack runway experience and shift attention away from the outfits through inconsistent performances.
One commenter wrote: “Maybe let models do their job professionally and influencers can carry on doing what they do… Fashion weeks have been ruled flawlessly by models for years and there’s no need of untrained non-professionals there I believe.”
Others focused less on who is cast and more on how the job is executed. “Whoever is doing the job just DO IT RIGHT! stop stumbling, kathak-ing, and strolling their way on the ramp. Unpracticed walks sabotage their outfits,” wrote one user, adding that “it’s about professionalism vs absolute embarrassment.”
On the other side of the discussion, supporters argue that influencers are often chosen for their reach and visibility, which can extend a designer’s audience beyond the runway. In a widely shared comment, model Saheefa Jabbar Khattak wrote that the space should be “respectfully accepted,” saying content creators “generate real revenue” and that “all of them are entrepreneurs in their own right, they’ve built brands, businesses, and long-term careers.” The comment also referenced international examples of creators appearing in mainstream entertainment and brand campaigns.
Some creators have also responded to the tone of the conversation. Content creator Ken, who walked the runaway for Vestido1: “trust me all models were so supportive and helping each other behind stage, no one hates on each other… it’s the public who creates that issues,” adding that “top models like Abeer and Aimal helped me to fix my jacket last minute.”
Traditionally, the showstopper has often been a celebrity, intended to create a moment and draw attention to the designer rather than demonstrate technical runway skill. As fashion weeks evolve alongside digital culture, the same logic can extend to influencers, provided that visibility does not come at the cost of professionalism. Ultimately, the conversation points less to who walks last, and more to the need for proper training and respect for the craft, regardless of the face chosen to lead the finale.