Inside Sage’s First Steps with Yves Saint Laurent, Balmain & Lanvin

Left Photo: Sage Walking For Lanvin F/W 26

Right Photo: Sage Walking For Yves Saint Laurent F/W 26

There are moments in fashion that mark a turning point not just in a career, but in a person’s belief in what is possible. For Sage, stepping into the whirlwind of Paris Fashion Week wasn’t simply about walking runways; it was about crossing an invisible threshold between dreaming and becoming. From fittings to first steps under the lights, every second carried the weight of years of determination, resilience, and hope.

To debut on one of the world’s most prestigious stages, and for legendary houses like Yves Saint Laurent, Balmain, and Lanvin, is the kind of milestone many aspire to, but few experience. It’s a space where nerves and excitement collide, where identity becomes performance, and where young models are asked to transform into living embodiments of a brand’s vision.

In this candid conversation with Models of Canada, Sage opens up about the emotions behind the glamour, the nerves that come with a first major show, the surreal joy of booking a dream debut, and the quiet power of finding confidence in the chaos backstage. Her story offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain, reminding us that even in an industry defined by poise and polish, vulnerability and growth are what truly define the journey.

Models of Canada: You’ve worked incredibly hard to reach this moment Sage. What did it feel like stepping into Paris Fashion Week knowing you’d be walking for houses like Yves Saint Laurent, Balmain, and Lanvin?”

Sage: Honestly, I was incredibly nervous. I started the week off working for YSL. It made me sooo nervous because it was the big show, but it gave me so much more confidence when it came time to do the other shows. It was scary but so so exciting!

Models of Canada: Can you take us inside the moment you found out you booked one of those shows? Where were you, and what was your reaction?

Sage: When I found out I got the exclusive debut for YSL, I was at the apartment after working for them doing looks. My agents all called me on a group call, asking me what my dream show was. I told them YSL… then they told me I booked it!!! I literally screamed and immediately called my mom. It felt so surreal. My agent even came and visited me that night to congratulate me and tell me how proud she was. I was so indescribably happy.

Models of Canada: Each of those brands has a distinct identity. How did it feel embodying the energy of Yves Saint Laurent versus Balmain versus Lanvin on the runway?

Sage: Honestly, I think it’s kind of like playing a character, even for shoots. It’s really about living in the clothes, the hair and makeup, and becoming the type of girl who would wear that look. For YSL, the coordinator told us the vibe of the show was “slow, sensual, and confident.” I was wearing a suit, which honestly helped me a lot, and I just really tried to get into character and fully live it!

Models of Canada: “Backstage at shows of that caliber is legendary. What was the atmosphere like behind the scenes, and what moments stood out to you the most?”

Sage: Backstage at these shows was honestly really nice, everyone was super lovely. I met a lot of girls who I'm now friends with. I think that was the most memorable part of being backstage for me. It was making friends with the girls at the shows. It makes everything so much better. You have someone to talk to and freakout with. The pressure goes away and you don’t feel so alone and nervous. Having someone by your side during these hectic and scary moments make everything better. I think it made me more confident too.

Models of Canada: “When you hit the runway for these iconic shows, did it feel surreal or did all your hard work snap into focus in that moment?”

Sage: Omg yes! My first show felt like I was not even in my body haha! Before it was my turn to walk, I was running everything through my head trying to remember all the directions they gave us, remembering the walk pattern and reminding myself it's all going to be okay. I’m going to look confident and I'm going to do amazing.

Once the show started and I started my walk, I swear it all melted away and I was obsessed with it. I wanted to walk again, it was so fun!

Models of Canada: “Walking for YSL, Balmain, and Lanvin is a huge milestone. How has that experience shaped your confidence and what you now believe is possible for your future?”

Sage: Walking for those shows has made me so much more confident, I can’t even fully explain it. Before every fitting or casting now, I remind myself that I walked in those super high YSL heels, and it reassures me that I can handle almost anything. I’ve realized it’s not nearly as terrifying as I once imagined. The teams are always incredibly caring and supportive, and the other models are so kind and encouraging. I’m really excited to see where my career goes next, but more than anything, I feel prepared and beyond excited for whatever the future holds.

Cover photo: Sage Walking For Balmain F/W 26

Written by: Models of Canada