Model and actor Safeeha Jabbar Khattak has weighed in on the growing, divided debate over influencers on fashion runways — and she’s standing firmly with content creators.
After criticism erupted over TikTok stars and influencers walking the ramp at the 23rd Bridal Couture Week (BCW) in Lahore, Khattak responded on Instagram, calling the shift “completely valid” and something that should be “respectfully accepted.” She reposted a video by influencer Manhoor (noor.mood2), agreeing that influencers are invited less for runway technique and more for visibility, conversation and reach — because outfits get remembered when people are talking.
Khattak also acknowledged that she wasn’t always supportive of the influencer space, but said her perspective changed with time. She described content creation as demanding and far from effortless, noting that creators work daily, generate real revenue and constantly have to show up online.
The discussion intensified as BCW clips flooded social media, with much of the backlash aimed at creators without traditional runway training. Viral couple Hemayal and Ali Aizat walked for Ali Xeeshan, while Jannat Mirza appeared as HSY’s showstopper — and faced sharp criticism over her walk and expressions. When Mirza later admitted the experience was harder than expected due to pressure and lighting, critics accused TikTok stars of relying on filters rather than skill.
Khattak widened the lens, saying the influencer shift isn’t unique to Pakistan. She pointed to global creators being cast in films, shows and major campaigns, naming figures like Khaby Lame, Mikayla Nogueira, Jeffree Star and the D’Amelio sisters. She also highlighted Pakistani creators gaining international recognition, arguing that influence today is a measurable currency, not just an online trend.
