From the Nile to the catwalk: The immortal runway that summoned Cleopatra

Let's revisit one of the most viewed runway shows in modeling history, by famous British designer John Galliano's Fall/Winter 1997-1998 collection.

In 1997, the fashion visionary John Galliano transformed the runway into a pharaoh’s kingdom.

John's show was inspired by the ancient Egyptian era, offering a splendid tribute to its history and culture.

John Galliano brought Cleopatra back to life. For this stage-breaking moment, he dressed Yasmeen as Cleopatra, the Queen of the Kingdom of Egypt, alongside Shalom Harlow as her dancer from Khener (a professional group of dancers formed to serve the Pharaoh).

Instead of simply sending models down the runway, he created an atmosphere that transported audiences back in time to the Nile.

The grandeur was evident: gilded costumes, ornate headpieces, and designs that paid tribute to Egypt’s legacy of opulence and power.

At the center of it all was Yasmeen Ghauri, whose presence on the runway was nothing short of mesmerizing. With her sharp features, hypnotic eyes, and commanding walk, she was the main character.

She was wrapped in a detailed costume with shimmering gold embellishments, impersonated Cleopatra perfectly, like no one had before.

The supermodel embodied the seductive nature of the legendary queen flawlessly, as like she meant for this and her throne. She truly ruled over the runway kingdom Galliano had conjured.

Then came Shalom Harlow, equally iconic in her own right. Taking on the role of Cleopatra’s dancer, she embodied grace and fluidity, bringing movement and vitality to the show. Her performance, infused with elegance, was a reminder of how Galliano blurred the line between fashion presentation and performance art.

Together, Yasmeen and Shalom created a dynamic duo that lit up the stage: the powerful majesty and her devoted servant, both captivating in their own ways.

Fashion critics often point to moments like these as proof of Galliano’s genius. He understood that clothing could tell stories, and that models were not just mannequins but characters capable of bringing his vision to life.

This Cleopatra-inspired spectacle wasn’t just about ancient history; it was about modern power, femininity, and eternal beauty.

Looking back, this runway show has become one of those legendary fashion memories that continue to resurface in conversations about the industry’s greatest moments.

In an era before social media, its impact spread through photographs, television clips, and word of mouth, cementing Yasmeen and Shalom’s performances as unforgettable.

Galliano has always been high on storytelling. His collections speak creativity at its highest end, and this particular showcase proved why he remains one of fashion’s greatest showmen.