 BlackBeautyandHair We all remember Iman when she burst on to the fashion scene in 1975 as a stunning model, sparking a small but significant shift in the way Black women viewed ourselves. Some industry pundits claimed that she broadened the definition of beauty because she was an African, not an African-American, who rose to the top. Others say her ‘European’ features made her acceptable to mainstream America. The editor of Essence magazine, for example, described her as ‘a white woman dipped in chocolate’.
However we rate her Somalian looks, it’s hard to ignore Iman. She has just launched an exclusive make-up range called I-Iman, published a book called I Am Iman and filled enough newspaper and magazine columns with celebrity-type interviews to keep her fans happy for ages.
Iman 
The book is part biography and part collection of short stories — many of which were contributions by her famous friends. It’s also brimming with fantastic pictures of Iman throughout her life including images of her by famous photographers such as Helmut Newton, Irving Penn, Norman Parkinson and Steven Meisel. The book’s blurb says the images explore the cultural and political power of good looks.
Iman claims that the fashion industry only ever anoints one Black girl each generation to rise to the top of the modelling profession and become queen of the fashion scene. Iman was one such Black girl, who became the only non-white top model adored and sought after by the fashion industry, with Naomi Campbell and Alek Wek following. Now that she’s no longer modelling, Iman found that while becoming a model may be every girl’s dream, the reality is different – especially if you are Black. She says, ‘Modelling is a business that eats its young. Spoiling them, flattering them, and then being nasty behind their backs.’
How did Iman survive? She says, ‘I was privileged because nobody ever told me that I was beautiful while I was growing up. I’m a typical Somalian-looking girl and I come from a nation of beauties and my skinny frame wasn’t the ideal.’ The lure of parties and drugs was tempered by her Muslim upbringing and respect for her much-loved father. ‘It was my strict family background that stopped me. It was hard enough for my parents to know that I was modelling.
Iman 
Her success can be measured by the lucrative advertising campaigns she has won as one of the first Black solo models: Calvin Klein, Valentino, Versace and Revlon’s first ethnic line. But now Iman is a different person – even slightly camera-shy.
(Find out what makes Iman tick nowadays with our exclusive interview).
How difficult was it to lose weight after the birth of your last baby?
‘Not very difficult. But I did diet and exercise to help me lose the extra weight.’ Did you have any specific diet or exercise work-out while you were pregnant?
‘No, nothing special. I ate whatever I craved, walked a lot and did some light yoga exercises to stretch my muscles.’ Has your body changed as a result of being pregnant quite late in life?
‘I did gain some weight, which I am quite happy with. Before I became pregnant I weighed about 125 pounds and I now weigh 132 pounds.’ Are you happy with your body shape?
‘You learn to love your body as you grow older. I don’t even mind my big butt and I like to wear clothes that enhance it!’ What exercise keeps you fit?
‘Boxing, Tae-Bo and some weightlifting!’ What is your daily skincare routine?
‘Cleanse, moisturise and hydrate. I keep it simple.’ Which skincare products do you use regularly?
‘My all-time favourite is Origins Ginger Body Scrub (£25), which leaves your skin glowing and feeling silky. And I find a massage can be very relaxing.’ Do you follow any particular eating plan?
‘You shouldn’t starve yourself. I eat four light meals per day, so I am never hungry and that eliminates any food bingeing! But I also don’t believe that I need to be a size 6.’ Why did you bring out a new make-up range?
‘My first make-up range for women of colour was created in 1994. It was called IMAN cosmetics and skincare collection, and is available at Selfridges. With the approach of the new millennium, I decided to create my second line for all women called I-Iman. It’s for the high octane, opulent diva in us all and available exclusively at Harrods. It already has a fan base of celebrities such as rapper Eve and Beverley Knight.’ Iman 
Tell us about your hair
‘I’ve been known to have anything from an Afro to a short blonde highlighted bob – thanks to a great salon that does weaves. I take care of my own hair with Kiehl’s products including Herbal Treatment Shampoo (£10), Formula 133 conditioner (£10), and High Gloss Conditioning and Styling Oil (£20.50).’ What make-up do you wear?
‘A bare minimum when I’m not being photographed, and a little foundation. I never wear lipstick, but prefer lip gloss with a hint of colour.’
Were you adding choice when you launched your new line of cosmetics?
‘Absolutely. The spice of life is choice. But the major difference between IMAN cosmetics and previous make-up lines is that we cater for women of all colours – Black, Hispanic, Asian and those of Middle Eastern origins. Our foundations and powders cover a wide range of skin tones.’ And finally your new book?
‘If it hadn’t been for my husband, (rock star David Bowie), I would never have found the courage to write it. One of the most exciting areas was working with Annie Leibovitz to bring together every black model from 1975 to the present day. It includes Beverley Johnson, Pat Cleveland, Naomi Campbell, Adia, Tyra Banks and Michelle de Swarte. Alek Wek was the only model who was unable to be present. Still, it’s a great picture!’ I Am Iman is published by Booth-Clibborn Editions for £28. It is available from www.booth-clibborn.com or call 020 7637 4255 to order by phone. www.google.com |
