Sarah Lahbati reflects on ‘mom guilt’ after pursuing fashion week dream

Sarah Lahbati | Image: Instagram/@sarahlahbati

Actress Sarah Lahbati admitted that she no longer believes in “mother’s guilt,” as she emphasized the importance of balancing her motherly duties while still being able to pursue her dreams after she recently made her Paris fashion week debut. 

Lahbati took to her Instagram broadcast channel to open up about witnessing what changed in her life after a year when she led the life of a single mother and unexpectedly ending up with a chance to participate in the Paris fashion week.

“As I sit here back home reflecting on the whirlwind of the past few days, I can’t help but marvel at how far I’ve come since last year. It’s a bit surreal to think back to a time when I felt… lost, my spirit weighed down and the light seemed distant. Yet, here I am, embracing my dreams in a city that feels like a second home,” said Lahbati, who speaks French fluently, having been born in Geneva, Switzerland.

“This journey began as a simple birthday treat for myself—a chance to celebrate in a place I adore. Little did I know it would coincide with Fashion Week and that I would have the opportunity to connect with someone I’ve long admired for her style and work ethic. Before I knew it, I found myself immersed in the vibrant pulse of Paris, dashing from shows to presentations, savoring every moment despite the rush,” added the actress.

Image: Instagram/@sarahlahbati

Lahbati said it’s important for her to be able to set aside her “mother’s guilt” for leaving her sons, Zion and Kai, home so she could attend the fashion week.

“Leaving my kids behind has been the hardest part. I have an eleven-year-old and a six-year-old, and it’s quite heartbreaking to be away from them. However, I no longer believe in mom guilt. It’s essential to balance my responsibilities while pursuing my dreams,” she explained.

Image: Instagram/@sarahlahbati

The “StarStruck” alumna then extended her gratitude to her team for “cheering her on as a Fashion Week newbie” and reminded everyone to not give up on their dreams.

“I owe a huge thank you to the Vogue Philippines team for their meticulous organization. As someone with ADHD, having a detailed schedule is a blessing. And the icing on the cake? Being surrounded by an incredible personal team, cheering me on as a Fashion Week newbie. Their support has made this experience not just enjoyable but truly unforgettable,” she said.

“I’m immensely grateful to everyone who believed in me and my dream. This journey is a reminder of why I pursued this path: to learn, to have fun, and to embrace the beautiful chaos of it all. So, to anyone out there chasing their dreams: keep going. You’ve got this. Make your dreams come true, kid. Merci, Paris. Je t’aime,” concluded the actress.

Image: Instagram/@sarahlahbati

On Sept. 24, Lahbati graced the Paris Fashion Week and one of her looks included a modern off-shoulder black dress with asymmetric draping. The actress also showed off her French-speaking skills as she took the audience inside of the shows she attended.

The 31-year-old actress made headlines last year following her separation from husband Richard Gutierrez. Earlier this year, Lahbati confirmed that she and Gutierrez have parted ways and are co-parenting their kids, while their annulment is being processed.

Gutierrez is rumored to be dating actress Barbie Imperial.