But when Daphne Selfe revisited her former career after reaching a new decade it was more than just a touch unusual.
In her younger days she’d graced catwalks and magazine covers. Now, at 87, she’s the world’s oldest supermodel.
And Daphne, who’s set to talk about the autobiography detailing her remarkable life at the Boswell Book Festival on Saturday, says it just goes to show that age is no concern.
And she welcomes being joined by a whole new generation of older models.
“There are definitely more of us around,” Daphne told The Sunday Post. “We had our first 50-plus fashion show in February and I was asked to close the show.
“We’re much better in this country now. If you’ve got grey hair you can still get a job, unlike America where they’re obsessed by youth.”
Daphne started aged 20, in classic discovered-by-accident fashion.
She was working in a Reading department store when a fashion show was being staged by London models and they found themselves one short.
“I was propelled on to the catwalk having never done it before. It was sheer luck.”
Over the decades, Daphne has seen massive changes in the industry, with girls now spotted much younger and wanted much thinner.
She gave up after she was married and became a mum-of-three, returning only after her husband’s death.
“I got rediscovered again when I was asked to do a London Fashion Week catwalk show for Red or Dead and then did a shoot for Vogue.
“I got on the books of a big agency and I’ve been busy ever since.”
Over the years Daphne has been photographed by a host of the biggest names in the business, including Nick Knight, David Bailey and Mario Testino, and worked with the likes of Twiggy and Erin O’Connor.
Over the years Daphne has amassed an enviable wardrobe but keeps her look as simple as possible.
“If I have one style tip it’s to dress appropriately for your age,” added Daphne.
“I still love what I do. I love wearing nice clothes and love getting to go abroad for shoots and to meet people.”
Daphne will be speaking about her book The Way We Wore at Dumfries House near Cumnock, on Saturday.
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