Runway Debut at Chanel Marks Breakout Moment for Lake Charles’ Ella Butler

Rising model Ella Butler, originally from San Diego, California, and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana, achieved a career milestone as she walked in the Chanel runway show during Paris Fashion Week, marking her runway debut and the first time she has ever walked in a fashion show. 

Butler held a standout position in the show’s lineup, walking just ahead of Alex Consani and following fellow model Raven, placing her among a distinguished group of faces selected to represent the house’s latest collection. The runway also featured leading models such as Anok Yai and Bhavita Mandiva, further underscoring the caliber of talent included in the show. 

To be cast in a Chanel runway presentation carries immense significance in the fashion world. Each model is carefully selected by the creative team to embody the spirit, elegance and narrative of the collection. Being placed within a key sequence of the show reflects a high level of trust and recognition from one of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world. 

For Butler, the moment represents not only personal achievement but also a proud milestone for the community she grew up in. 

Discovered by mother agent Simone Foreman of Images Model and Talent Agency, Butler’s rise has been swift and notable. Foreman first recognized Butler’s unique presence and potential, helping guide her early development before she signed with VNY Models, one of the industry’s leading international modeling agencies. 

“Ella has always had something special,” said Foreman. “From the moment we met her, there was a natural elegance and confidence that translated immediately in front of the camera. Watching her walk for Chanel at Paris Fashion Week, especially as her debut, is an incredible moment, not just for her, but for everyone who believed in her from the beginning.” 

Paris Fashion Week represents the pinnacle of the international fashion calendar, drawing designers, editors, celebrities and industry leaders from around the globe. Chanel’s show is consistently among the most anticipated events of the season, making Butler’s debut appearance a particularly meaningful accomplishment. The moment signals Butler’s emergence as one of fashion’s rising faces on the global stage, while also highlighting the growing influence of talent discovered outside traditional fashion capitals. 

From Lake Charles to Paris, Butler’s journey reflects the power of discovery, mentorship and dedication, and marks the beginning of what many expect to be a standout career in high fashion. 

For Butler, the significance of the moment goes beyond the runway. “It’s surreal,” she said. “To represent where I’m from while walking for a house as iconic as Chanel is something I’ll never forget.”