Elle MacPherson commands the runway once again as she approaches 60 with style

It’s been more than a decade since Australia’s most recognised supermodel was on the runway but last night Elle MacPherson was back as she sashayed down the runway at the Melbourne Fashion Festival.

First discovered as a model in the 80s, Elle’s breakthrough came when she appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated’ s swimsuit edition in 1986. Her six-foot frame quickly earned her the nickname “The Body” and she graced the covers of many magazines while also becoming the face of top brands such as Revlon and Victoria’s Secret.

In addition to her modelling career, she ventured into acting where she appeared in films such as Sirens, and The Edge, and made an appearance on television series such as Friends and Britain & Ireland’s Next Top Model. 

Elle also established herself as an entrepreneur by successfully launching her own lingerie line, Elle MacPherson Intimates. She later diversified her business ventures, including launching a skincare line called The Body, and co-founding WelleCo, a wellness company known for its Super Elixir supplement.

In an interview with Today Show hosts Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abdo, the model who will turn 60 on March 29  said she’s feeling “better now than ever” and agreed to walk the runway to support local Australian designers.

“[Walking at PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival]  was a celebration. It was wonderful to be wearing all those young Australian designers… and supporting these Australian designers that have been breaking ground overseas. I had a great time,” she enthused.

Elle added she was also excited about supporting the event’s sponsor PayPal, which has supported her own brands in the past as well as their charity partner, UNICEF.

“So it was about giving back. Supporting Melbourne fashion designers… and just enjoying it,” she added.

Elle strutted the catwalk on Monday night in designs by Australian labels including Viktoria + Woods, Bianca Spender and Aje.

Speaking about her 60th birthday, she said, “I got to tell you, I feel better now than ever. My 40s were kind of sketchy years. But now I feel like I’m really in my element.”

She went on to explain why things are currently going so well for her.

“I’m loving life. Life is very purposeful. It’s meaningful for me. I have love in my life,” she said referring to partner American musician Doyle Bramhall, 54.

Despite the evolving landscape of the fashion industry, Elle’s influence and legacy as a supermodel, businesswoman, and advocate for health and wellness continue to endure, cementing her status as an enduring icon. But she remains loyal to her Australian roots.

Speaking to the Daily Telegraph about her appearance at Melbourne Fashion Week Elle said she was happy to open for the Aussie event.

“I’m grateful to be coming home, not to be seen necessarily as an icon, but I’m grateful for my Australian heritage,” she said.

“I’ve had such an extraordinary career that’s brought me unusual and interesting experiences and I’m extremely grateful.”