Adelaide model Vaibhavi “Vi” Lath stars at Paris Haute Couture Week

An Adelaide model who defies one of the industry’s most rusted-on conventions is quickly becoming an in-demand talent across the globe.

They thought she’d never make it in Paris but top Adelaide model Vaibhavi “Vi” Lath is proving her doubters wrong.

The 23-year-old has made her mark in the world’s fashion capital, starring at Paris Haute Couture Week for the first time.

Last month she walked in a show for leading designer Rahul Mishra, as part of his Spring/Summer collection.

It’s major step for Vi, who was discovered by Finesse Models Australia director Brigette Mitchell in 2019.

Ms Mitchell said the Indian-born beauty’s appearance on the catwalk in Paris was a significant milestone.

“It’s very exciting. She’s just under 5’8 (or 172cm) and for someone so petite to be walking in Paris is huge,” she said.

“A lot of people thought she couldn’t but she’s proving them all wrong.”

Vaibhavi “Vi” Lath during the Women's Haute-Couture Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Week in Paris. Picture: Geoffrey Van Der Hasselt/AFP

Vaibhavi Lath from Finesse Models in Stepney wearing Vicoola Signature Label. Picture: Matt Loxton

Splitting her time between London and Paris, Vi is in big demand in Australia and overseas, gracing the pages of Vogue Arabia and French Marie Claire, and starring in campaigns for brands such as UNIQLO, Ralph Lauren and Country Road.

There’s also been beauty work for Armani and Napoleon Perdis, and a star turn for prestigious diamond jeweller De Beers.

Born in New Dehli, Vi moved to Adelaide as a child with her family in 2007, studying at the University of Adelaide and completing a masters degree in psychology.

Finesse Models Australia is Vi’s mother agency, and she is signed to Elite Worldwide. She also recently signed with top New York agency, Women.

Vi’s expected to return to Australia – and Adelaide – in March, where she will shoot some big campaigns for local brands.