Supermodel Status: Breaking Barriers and Making Statements

Upon arriving in New York, Iman quickly rose to prominence. Her first major assignment was with Vogue, and soon after, she became a fixture in major fashion magazines, working with designers like Yves Saint Laurent, Gianni Versace, Calvin Klein, and Donna Karan.

Iman brought an unprecedented sense of poise and cultural authenticity to an industry dominated by Eurocentric beauty ideals. She challenged industry standards simply by existing at the top, and in doing so, paved the way for future generations of Black and African models, including Naomi Campbell, Alek Wek, and Liya Kebede.

Her deep skin tone, shaved eyebrows, high cheekbones, and minimalist aesthetic made her instantly iconic, and designers adored her ability to transform into both muse and mannequin, seamlessly flowing between avant-garde couture and high-end commercial work.

Muse to Legends: Yves Saint Laurent and Beyond

Among her many collaborators, Yves Saint Laurent held Iman in the highest regard. The legendary designer famously said, “My dream woman is Iman.” He dedicated an entire collection  the African Queen collection  to her, citing her regal bearing and otherworldly presence as the inspiration.

She also worked with Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, and Irving Penn, appearing on countless magazine covers and strutting down the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York with commanding grace.

Her impact wasn’t just about fashion   it was about identity, politics, and art. She challenged whitewashed beauty standards and demanded respect for her culture and origins. In a 1980s fashion world where darker models were often tokenized, Iman insisted on being seen not just as a model, but as a woman with intellect, power, and heritage.

Love and Legacy: Marriage to David Bowie

In 1992, Iman married British rock legend David Bowie, forming one of the most celebrated and unexpected unions in pop culture history. Despite their fame, the couple maintained a deeply private and romantic relationship.

They had one daughter together, Alexandria “Lexi” Zahra Jones, born in 2000. Iman also has an older daughter, Zulekha Haywood, from her previous marriage to NBA star Spencer Haywood.

David and Iman’s marriage was built on mutual respect, creativity, and an enduring emotional bond. Bowie called Iman his “wife, muse, and queen,” and Iman often said that while many adored David Bowie the icon, she loved David Jones, the man behind the persona.

Their 24-year marriage ended with Bowie’s tragic passing from cancer in 2016. Iman has continued to honor his legacy with dignity and discretion, stating in a rare interview, “David is not my ‘late husband.’ He’s my husband — and always will be.”

The Iman Cosmetics Empire: Creating Products for All Women

In 1994, Iman launched Iman Cosmetics, one of the first makeup lines designed specifically for women of color. At the time, major brands largely ignored deeper skin tones, offering limited or mismatched products. Iman’s line was revolutionary, built on the belief that beauty is universal but products should be inclusive.

Her company flourished, catering to women of every background   Black, Latina, Asian, and Middle Eastern  and became a multi-million dollar brand sold in over 10 countries.

Iman Cosmetics did more than just provide makeup; it created visibility, representation, and empowerment. Today, her brand is considered a forerunner to inclusive beauty lines like Fenty Beauty and Pat McGrath Labs, proving once again that Iman was decades ahead of her time.

Humanitarian Work and Advocacy

Beyond the runway and business world, Iman has dedicated much of her life to humanitarian work. She has been a UNICEF ambassador and a vocal advocate for refugee rights, education for girls, and global health initiatives.

She co-founded Keep a Child Alive alongside Alicia Keys and continues to work with organizations like Save the Children, CARE, and Dr. Hawa Abdi Foundation, which supports women and children in Somalia.

Iman has used her platform not only to speak out but to act. Whether it’s raising awareness for famine relief or funding schools in East Africa, her activism is rooted in compassion and action.

The Aging Conversation: Redefining Beauty at Every Age

Now in her late 60th, Iman remains a paragon of beauty and wisdom. She has rejected the notion that women should “disappear” with age and continues to grace magazine covers, participate in campaigns, and speak about aging with authenticity.

“I don’t believe in anti-aging,” she has said. “I believe in aging gracefully — and unapologetically.”

In a youth-obsessed industry, Iman’s continued presence is not only refreshing — it’s revolutionary. Her journey tells women everywhere: you are allowed to be powerful, visible, and relevant at every age.

Honors, Awards, and Global Recognition

Over her storied career, Iman has received numerous honors and accolades, including:

• CFDA Fashion Icon Award (2010)

• BET Honors for Service in Business and Humanitarian Work

• UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador title

• Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery Portrait

• Recognition from TIME, Forbes, and Essence as one of the most influential Black women in fashion and media

These honors reflect not just her style but her substance. Iman is not only remembered for what she wore, but what she stood for.

Iman’s Enduring Influence on Fashion and Culture

Iman’s influence can be seen across industries — from Naomi Campbell’s admiration, to Beyoncé citing her as an inspiration, to designers consistently referencing her look and attitude in their collections.

She shattered the myth that fashion is only about fabric and face — and instead made it about fearlessness, pride, and purpose.

Her iconic poses, her defiance of racial norms, and her business ventures all signal a woman who never settled for the role she was offered — she wrote her own script.

Final Thoughts: A Living Legend

Iman’s story is the embodiment of grace, intellect, and resilience. From a diplomat’s daughter in Somalia to a global icon, she exemplifies what it means to live life with intention and impact.

She has worn many crowns  supermodel, entrepreneur, humanitarian, wife, mother, and role model  and worn them all effortless.