Helena Christensen proved she still possesses plenty of star power when the iconic supermodel attended Derby Day at Flemington Racecourse on Saturday.
The 57-year-old showcased her striking figure in a custom Rebecca Vallance creation, while the Australian designer accompanied her in another bespoke look from her acclaimed label.
Created especially for the occasion, both outfits offered a modern take on Derby Day’s classic black-and-white dress code, combining sculptural shapes, precise tailoring and contemporary femininity.
Helena attended as an exclusive guest of Lexus, with her appearance marking a significant moment in the fashion house’s partnership with the luxury car brand for the 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival.
The Danish model completed her tweed ensemble with an elegant black wide-brimmed hat by Nerida Winter. Scarlet lipstick added a vivid pop of colour, while her polished makeup highlighted her naturally youthful features.
Rebecca Vallance, who is also a close friend of Helena’s, told Daily Mail that the supermodel has “an incredible sense of style”.
Helena Christensen proved she still has plenty of star power as she attended Derby Day at Flemington Racecourse on Saturday with close friend and Australian designer Rebecca Vallance
“She’s effortlessly elegant, but always brings something unexpected to the way she dresses,” Vallance said.
“She’s also a close friend, so creating something custom for her has been particularly special.
“We wanted a look that felt distinctly Helena while celebrating the elegance and tradition of Derby Day.”
Vallance and Christensen first met at a fashion industry event overseas. The designer also offered a glimpse into what the statuesque brunette is like away from the spotlight.
“She’s incredibly warm and grounded, and it’s lovely to now be sharing such a special occasion together,” she said.
“It’s always more fun sharing these occasions with a girlfriend. Derby Day is one of my favourite events on the Melbourne social calendar, and I’m especially excited to be experiencing it with Helena this year.”
Vallance, whose clients include members of royal families as well as celebrities such as Paris and Nicky Hilton and Kelly Osbourne, was recently named one of the most powerful figures in global fashion. She is also preparing to expand her brand internationally next year.
“We have some very exciting plans for 2027 as we continue to grow internationally, but there’s still plenty happening before the end of this year!” she told Our News Outlet.
The 57-year-old highlighted her figure in a custom Rebecca Vallance design, while the Australian designer joined her in another bespoke creation from her popular label
Helena finished her tweed look with a dramatic black wide-brimmed hat by Nerida Winter and brightened the outfit with scarlet lipstick and radiant makeup
“In November, we’re heading to London to unveil our collaborative Christmas tree with AKI London, which we’ll celebrate with a special event.
“I’ve also recently been appointed to the Advisory Board for the 2026 Fashion Trust Arabia Prize, which is an incredible honour. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support emerging talent alongside some of the industry’s most respected international leaders.
“We’re incredibly fortunate to dress so many inspiring women around the world, including members of royal families, and those relationships are something we really value.”
Christensen’s remarkable modelling career began in 1986, when she won the Miss Universe Denmark title, before taking her career to extraordinary heights.
She became a household name after appearing in Chris Isaak’s music video for Wicked Game, later joining the original line-up of Victoria’s Secret Angels.
Away from the runway, Christensen dated the late INXS frontman Michael Hutchence for five years during the early 1990s.
In 1998, she began a five-year relationship with The Walking Dead actor Norman Reedus, 57.
The couple welcomed their son, Mingus Lucien Reedus, in 1999. They separated in 2003 but continued to co-parent amicably.
Christensen later spent seven years in a relationship with Interpol singer Paul Banks, 48.
Earlier this year, Christensen marked Mother’s Day with Mingus by sharing a sweet photograph of the pair enjoying lunch together.
