For the model, content creator, and entrepreneur, her Gucci runway debut wasn't just a buzzy moment&mdash;it was a personal triumph.

Every time the fashion set touches down in Italy for Milan Fashion Week, there are a few shows that editors, models, and fashion fans simply can't wait for. This season, the energy was especially high, and though the week was full of buzzy shows, designer debuts, and plenty of fabulous collections, all eyes were on Demna's first runway show for Gucci.
But the hype wasn't just contained to the front row&mdash;backstage proceedings held equal excitement. For the <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion-week/gucci-fall-winter-2026-collection-runway-photos-demna-debut-models-kate-moss" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gucci Fall/Winter 2026 show</a>, Sydney Carlson&mdash;model, content creator, and co-founder behind Wildflower Cases, the Internet-beloved accessories label&mdash;made her Milan Fashion Week runway debut. As she told L'OFFICIEL, Carlson's love for Gucci is no secret, so when she learned she'd be walking the runway for the monumental occasion, it was a dream come true. Backstage, she learned it wasn't just her appreciation for the label's visionary designs that defined the experience, it was the whole scene&mdash;fellow models, hair and makeup, and plenty of runway preparation.&nbsp;
After the crowd at the show slowly wound down, Carlson debriefed the experience with L'OFFICIEL. Below, the model talks her love for the brand, the energy backstage, and more.&nbsp;

Sydney Carlson on the runway for Gucci Fall/Winter 2026. Getty Images.

L'OFFICIEL: You&rsquo;re no stranger to attending buzzy runway presentations in the front row, but what did it feel like to be on the other side of it? How did walking in the show change the experience for you?
Sydney Carlson: It made me realize even more how much really goes into a less than 5-minute show. It makes me appreciate and love the art and life of fashion even more. Seeing behind the scenes, I was obsessed.
L'O:&nbsp;What was your first reaction when you found out that you&rsquo;d be walking in the show? 
SC: I cried. fully. 16-year-old Sydney Lynn would be sobbing if she knew I was doing this. Thinking about her just really made me emotional.

L'O: What was the atmosphere backstage like for Demna's debut collection for Gucci?
SC: It was FUN! High energy, nerves were high, but full of excitement and amazing energy.&nbsp;
L'O: Do you have any runway idols/inspirations? Were you channeling anyone with your walk, or did it come naturally?&nbsp;
SC: My entire TikTok feed is now these Russian runway training camp videos and a mix of '90s supermodels&mdash;so yes, I channeled them both.&nbsp;
L'O: Did any of the other models give you any memorable words of wisdom or advice?&nbsp;
SC: Amelia [Gray] gave me the best advice; she was so helpful and made me feel so confident. She explained her whole mental routine of becoming a character, and I just embodied everything like she was my coach.&nbsp;

L'O: For the show, you wore a really unique, fun look&mdash;classic Gucci. Off the runway, where would you wear the outfit?&nbsp;
SC: I would wear my look anywhere where I wanna feel my best. I felt SO good and loved my look. I&rsquo;d die to rock it again, maybe on a first date? Is that insane?
L'O: Do you have a personal connection with Gucci? What does the label mean to you?&nbsp;
SC: ABSOLUTELY. Gucci was the first designer brand I became a fan of. I literally had a Gucci-themed birthday party at like 19&mdash;yes, Gucci cake and all. I&rsquo;ve always been the biggest fan, so this has been something I've manifested for years.&nbsp;
L'O: How does Gucci align with your personal style?&nbsp;
SC: The way Gucci has evolved reminds me of how my personal style has evolved. The simplicity yet chicness and fun that Gucci brings aligns so much with my personal style&hellip;I try to hit all the marks!&nbsp;

L'O: What was it like to see your sister cheering you on from the front row?&nbsp;
SC: Emotional!!! I knew she was going to be emotional, so knowing she was there made me feel so much better. I had her support and love from just a foot away.&nbsp;
L'O: How did you celebrate your Milan Fashion Week runway debut?
SC: Immediate Aperol Spritz with the gang, a lovely Gucci-filled dinner, and then we danced the night away, and yes, I&rsquo;m still recovering.

Inside Sydney Carlson's Milan Fashion Week Runway Debut For Gucci

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