On March 3, 2023, Precious Lee made history as the first Black plus-size model ever to open a show in the entire history of Paris Fashion Week.
On March 3, 2023, Precious Lee made history as the first Black plus-size model ever to open a show in the entire history of Paris Fashion Week.
March 3, 2026
Nina Ricci Fall 2023 show at Paris Fashion Week was more than just a seasonal debut. It served as a manifesto for the modern age of French couture. When Precious Lee stepped onto the catwalk to open the show, she did not just present a collection; she dismantled decades of exclusionary casting practices. As the first Black plus-size model to lead the charge for the nearly century old house, she embodied the bold, transformative spirit that Harris Reed brought to the brand.
For generations, Parisian luxury was synonymous with a very narrow definition of beauty. Harris Reed, the youngest creative director in the history of the house, sought to challenge this rigidity immediately. By selecting Precious Lee to open his inaugural collection, he sent a clear message that his version of Nina Ricci would prioritize diversity and theatrical joy over conventional size requirements.
Precious Lee appeared in a voluminous, vibrant ensemble that highlighted the sculptural romanticism Harris Reed is known for. Her presence on the runway was a powerful validation for underrepresented communities in fashion, proving that high-octane glamour and editorial sophistication are not limited by size or race.
This specific event remains a benchmark for progress within the industry. The collection itself was a riot of color, featuring polka dots, massive tulle bows, and gender-fluid tailoring that drew inspiration from the exuberant archives of the eighties and nineties. However, the casting of Precious Lee is what truly solidified this moment in fashion history.
This historic opening marked the first time such a milestone occurred in the entire history of Paris Fashion Week, proving that a storied heritage label could evolve without losing its soul. While the industry still has work to do regarding consistent representation, the image of Precious Lee leading the Nina Ricci show remains a defiant symbol of change. It was a poetic start to a tenure that would continue to push boundaries until its very end.
