Keep in mind the design who turned the ending of Matthieu Blazy‘s very first Chanel reveal into among the most talked-about runway minutes of 2025? That was Awar Odhiang, and she has another significant factor to commemorate. The South Sudanese-Canadian design has actually been called Model of the Year at The Fashion Awards 2026.
The 25-year-old will get the honour at London’s Royal Albert Hall on 30 November. Born in a refugee camp in Ethiopia and raised in Canada, Awar’s journey to the worldwide style scene has actually taken her from being found in Alberta to strolling a few of the world’s greatest runways. She is now represented by significant modelling companies throughout London, Milan, Paris and New York.
Awar Odhiang strolling the red carpet at the 2026 Met Gala in New York City. Image Credit: Awar Odhiang/Instagram
Her runway résumé consists of programs for Prada, Versace, Miu Miu, Saint Laurent and Jacquemus, however it was her look at Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2026 program in October 2025 that presented her to an even broader audience. Closing Matthieu Blazy’s very first collection for the style home, Awar used the program’s bridal appearance, including an extra-large white t-shirt and an abundant, vibrant feathered skirt. It was what occurred at the ending that recorded everybody’s attention.
As the designs collected for their last walk, Awar broke development, smiling, clapping and twirling in her skirt. When Blazy appeared, she ran towards him and accepted him. The spontaneous minute rapidly went viral, with style fans commemorating the pleasure she gave the runway. It was likewise a historical look: Awar ended up being just the 3rd Black lady to close a Chanel program in your home’s 115-year history, after Alek Wek and Adut Akech.
Design of the Year 2026 winner Awar Odhiang backstage at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Image Credit: Awar Odhiang/Instagram
Ever since, her profession has actually continued to collect rate. Awar has actually appeared on 8 worldwide publication covers this year and fronted projects for Chanel, Chloé, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Loro Piana and H&M. She has actually likewise utilized her growing platform to defend higher representation and addition of Black designs in the high-end fashion business.
Awar Odhiang in Daniel Roseberry’s Schiaparelli Spring 2026 Haute Couture collection in Paris. Picture Credit: Awar Odhiang/Instagram
Her Model of the Year acknowledgment commemorates an exceptional year of runway, editorial and project work, in addition to the impact she continues to have beyond the catwalk. On 30 November, she’ll take that acknowledgment to the Royal Albert Hall, including another turning point to a profession that is still unfolding.
Awar Odhiang using a customized sports jacket throughout global style week. Image Credit: Awar Odhiang/Instagram
Awar Odhiang participating in the 2026 Met Gala in custom-made Chanel by Matthieu Blazy. Picture Credit: Awar Odhiang/Instagram
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