𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐳𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐙𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞: Malaysia’s Fashion Powerhouse Making Global Waves

Malaysian model Ridzman Zidaine is rewriting the rules of representation in fashion. From his historic debut opening Louis Vuitton’s Pre-Fall 2024 show in Hong Kong to closing the Louis Vuitton S/S 2026 Men’s Show in Paris, Zidaine has become one of the most powerful emerging voices in luxury modeling. At just 24 years old, his presence on the runways of Paris, Milan, London, Tokyo, and beyond confirms what the industry already knows—Ridzman Zidaine is the future of fashion.

A Star is Born: From Kuala Lumpur to the Global Stage

Discovered by creative director Ridduan TTFGA of Topboi Citizen, Zidaine’s entry into modeling wasn’t by chance—it was fate. Spotted during a local casting call in Malaysia, the young, long-haired student quickly rose through the ranks, catching the attention of Next Model Management, one of the world’s top agencies. Today, he is signed with Next in New York, Paris, Milan, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, and with Bravo Models in Tokyo.

Currently based in London, Zidaine splits his time between continents, racking up prestigious campaigns and editorial spreads while championing Southeast Asian representation in fashion.

2025 Highlights: From Paris Fashion Week to Louis Vuitton Lookbooks

Zidaine's 2025 has been nothing short of stellar. Among his most recent and notable appearances:

• Closed the Louis Vuitton S/S 2026 Men’s Show (Paris, 06/24/2025)
• Opened the AWGE S/S 2026 Show (Paris, 06/27/2025)
• Walked for Wales Bonner, KidSuper, Lacoste, MM6 Maison Margiela
• Featured in Louis Vuitton Resort 2026 Men's Lookbook (June 2025)
• Editorials in Esquire Italia (“Around The World In A Day”) and Models.com’s Model of the Week
• Captured in street style features at PFWM SS26 by Melodie Jeng

Zidaine’s catwalk presence and versatility—from the cerebral elegance of Wales Bonner to the avant-garde energy of KidSuper—showcase a model fully in command of his craft.

Breaking Barriers: The First Malaysian to Open for Louis Vuitton

In late 2023, Ridzman made history by becoming the first Malaysian model to open for Louis Vuitton—a powerful milestone not just for himself but for Malaysia's presence in international fashion. Chosen by Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton’s men’s creative director, Zidaine walked the Pre-Fall 2024 show in Hong Kong, an event attended by industry titans like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and LeBron James.

Opening a show of that magnitude is no small feat. The first model sets the tone and energy, and Zidaine did it with an effortless elegance that left the world watching.

“It was absolutely an honour to be chosen to open the Louis Vuitton show in Hong Kong, proudly representing Malaysia,” Zidaine said in a 2024 interview. “Each setback I’ve faced only made me stronger.”

Style, Discipline, and Identity

Standing tall at 6’1” (188cm), with a lean 34-27-34 frame and arresting brown eyes, Zidaine's look blends classic high-fashion features with a uniquely global aura. But beyond the physical, it's his philosophy that sets him apart:

• On the runway: “Walking is instinctual. I let the confidence come from authenticity.”
• On challenges: “Modeling is emotional. It’s about resilience. It’s about energy.”
• On preparation: “I don’t overthink it. I surround myself with friends, stay grounded, and enjoy the experience.”

Zidaine credits his success not only to perseverance but to the mentorship of Ridduan TTFGA, whose agency Topboi Citizen is reshaping Malaysian modeling by centering emotion, individuality, and community.

Cultural Impact: Representation That Matters

Zidaine’s rise symbolizes something much larger than individual success. As a Southeast Asian Muslim man breaking into elite European fashion houses, he represents a shift toward a more inclusive and diverse fashion landscape.

“To be a model on global stages—there’s a lot of responsibility,” he reflects. “But it’s important. I want people to see that we belong here too.”

He is not just walking runways; he’s opening doors. His journey echoes the long-standing cultural richness of the Malay archipelago, now reflected on fashion’s biggest stages.

What’s Next for Ridzman Zidaine?

Though he’s already walked for names like Hermès, Zegna, Ami, Emporio Armani, JW Anderson, Issey Miyake, and more, Zidaine shows no signs of slowing down. His next goal? Establishing a strong presence in the United States.

“I’m not here just to model,” he says. “I want to inspire. I want to make Malaysia proud. And I want to keep telling stories through fashion.”

From Kuala Lumpur’s creative undercurrents to the spotlight of Paris Fashion Week, Ridzman Zidaine is more than a model—he’s a movement. His career is proof that authenticity, vision, and persistence can redefine what global fashion looks like.

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Zidaine offers this advice:

“Be true to yourself. Focus inward, not on comparisons. The journey is yours to shape.”