China's oldest model works the runway at 80 years old

80-year-old Wang Deshun has become a Chinese sensation [Photo: YouTube]
80-year-old Wang Deshun has become a Chinese sensation [Photo: YouTube]

Over the past few years, the fashion industry has appeared to embrace older models. Just recently, we’ve had Lauren Hutton appearing on the catwalk and 88-year-old Baddie Winkle become the face of Missguided. Before that was Joan Didion for Céline, Jessica Lange as the face of Marc Jacobs Beauty and Joni Mitchell’s Saint Laurent campaign.

But nothing compares to China’s latest sensation, 80-year-old actor and artist Wang Deshun.

'China's hottest grandpa' is determined to defy the ageing process [Photo: YouTube]
‘China’s hottest grandpa’ is determined to defy the ageing process [Photo: YouTube]

After teaching modelling and organising fashion shows in his younger days, Wang took to the runway at last year’s China Fashion Week. Topless. His toned body quickly rallied up a horde of fans, with the media dubbing him ‘China’s hottest grandpa’.

This wasn’t the first time he has appeared sans clothes. At the age of 50, Wang decided to move into the realm of performance art, transforming into living sculptures.

But Wang is more than just something to look at. He’s a role model to us all as his recent profile in The New York Times shows. He’s proven that age is really just a number as he continues to challenge himself and his body in a bid to slow down the ageing process.

“It’s about your state of mind. It’s not about age. Nature determines age, but you determine your state of mind,” he says.

What a mantra for everyone to live by.

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