Return of the Icons: Why Mehreen Syed and Sunita Marshall Owned LAAM Fashion Week

In the fast-paced, thumb-scrolling era of 2026, the fashion industry has often been accused of swapping talent for following counts. But during the LAAM Fashion Week, the organizers made a power move that silenced the critics: they brought back the titans.

When Mehreen Syed and Sunita Marshall took to the ramp, it wasn’t just a walk; it was a masterclass. In an industry increasingly cluttered with ‘so-called’ influencers, digital creators who might have the engagement but lack the carriage, the presence of these two legends served as a visceral reminder of what professional modeling actually looks like.

The Mastery of the Gait

Mehreen Syed, closing for HSY, and Sunita Marshall, commanding the floor for Nomi Ansari, provided the week’s most viral moments. Social media was instantly flooded with comparisons between the veterans and the influencers who had walked earlier in the day.

While many influencers appeared visibly nervous or over-compensated with dramatic hand gestures, Sunita Marshall moved with a quiet, architectural grace. Every turn was calculated; every pause was a photograph.

Mehreen Syed’s ability to carry heavy, bridal couture as if it were a second skin highlighted a skill set that influencers simply haven’t developed. Professional models understand how to make the garment the star, whereas influencers often struggle to move the focus away from their own persona.

The Online Verdict: “Bring Back the Pros”

The digital reaction was overwhelmingly in favor of the veterans. The critique of “influencer fatigue” reached a fever pitch during LFW. Fans pointed out that while influencers are excellent for marketing and “get ready with me” videos, the sacred space of the runway requires a specific discipline. The poise, the “dead-eye” focus, and the rhythmic synchronization with the music are technical skills honed over decades.

A Lesson in Longevity

By placing Mehreen and Sunita at the forefront, LAAM Fashion Week successfully bridged the gap between the heritage of the Pakistani fashion industry and its digital future. It proved that while influencers can drive sales, only the icons can drive the dream.

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As the curtains closed, the takeaway for designers was clear: if you want your clothes to be remembered, you hire a model. If you want your clothes to be clicked on, you hire an influencer. But if you want to create a moment that stops time, you bring back the queens.

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