Sheila Sim on her runway return at Chanel in Sydney: ‘I represent women who have forgotten to love themselves’

Singaporean model-actress Sheila Sim made a memorable return to the runway at Chanel's Cruise 2026/27 show in Sydney, Australia, after over a decade away. For Sim, the moment was more than just a fashion event – it was a personal homecoming, celebrating her enduring relationship with the French luxury house and her newfound confidence as a mother of two.

Speaking to CNA Lifestyle after the show, Sim reflected on how different the experience felt this time around, attributing her newfound maturity and self-assuredness to her role as a mother. She explained that while the experience was not new to her, the change in her life circumstances had transformed her approach to the runway.

"I used to feel very jittery and very nervous and very insecure every time I'm on the runway. But even though nothing has changed, it feels like everything has changed," she admitted. For Sim, her return to the runway represents more than just a fashion moment – it is also about visibility and representation, particularly for women who may have forgotten to love themselves after becoming mothers.

She sees herself as a representation of women who have been set aside by society after devoting their lives to their families. Sim's relationship with Chanel has been long-standing, and she sees this latest chapter as a reflection of her personal journey. The designer, Matthieu Blazy, has embraced individuality and the multifaceted identities of women in his vision for the brand, and Sim appreciates this inclusive approach to femininity.

Beyond the glamour of the runway, Sim also admires the craftsmanship and dedication of the people behind Chanel, finding a deeper appreciation for the brand through her experiences with its employees.