Caroline Labouchere On Proving That Beauty Knows No Age Limit
When Caroline Labouchere embraced her silver hair during lockdown, she never imagined becoming Dubai's most unexpected model. At the age of 54, the British expat caught the fashion world's attention. Here was something refreshingly real in an industry fixated on youth, leading to runway spots and campaigns across the Middle East. Now she's the face of a movement that proves beauty deepens with time.
What's been the most unexpected or challenging aspect of ageing?
How my skin looks and feels. We lose elasticity in our skin as our collagen declines, and we get wrinkles. Lots of wrinkles – everywhere!
I'm braver, more confident, and definitely happier.
What truly defines beauty – in yourself or others?
Beauty is both emotional and physical: happiness shines in the eyes, health shines from the body. The combination is a totally subjective 'feeling' of beauty.
What gives you the confidence to share your story on social media?
We evolved into communities. They were small, villages. Everyone knew each other and all ages sat together. I think of social media as my 'village.'
What's your signature scent?
Acqua di Parma's Colonia. I remember writing letters to my son at boarding school and spraying them with 'my' smell.
Any beauty treatments you swear by?
I do Botox and I love a good massage with some exfoliation.
Whose style – real or fictional – has inspired you most?
Audrey Hepburn. Style icon! Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Simple, yet elegant.
What moment in your life are you proudest of?
My first modelling job at the age of 54. Something clicked. I rocked the shoot and didn't second-guess myself for the first time in my life.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Make mistakes. We learn from them and they make well-rounded humans.
What's always in your handbag, no matter what?
Lip gloss, tissues, a toothpick, a hair elastic, a hair claw clip, a Diet Pepsi and my phone.
Your most treasured possession?
I don't treasure possessions, but the thing I care most about after my husband and children would be my dog, Mocha.
How would you describe yourself in a sentence or word?
A woman.
Describe your perfect day off – how do you unwind?
Nothing urgent. Coffee on the balcony with my husband and dog (dog first, perhaps!), lunch out somewhere with my daughter and son-in-law, and/or my son and his girlfriend and – of course – my husband. A dog walk. A ready, steady, cook pot-luck-type supper before curling up with family on a sofa with a good Netflix show.
Looking back, which chapter of your life feels the most beautiful to you?
Now. I have freedom. I can be who I want, with whom I want, when I want. Being authentic daily takes work. I don't always get it right, but I shall keep trying!
Caroline's Top 3 Beauty Picks
From Harper's Bazaar Arabia May 2025 Issue.
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