The very first image I saw of Iman was shot by renowned photographer, Peter Beard. He is noted to have discovered the model of Somalian heritage in 1975 at the University of Nairobi. Iman became the first African model to grace the cover of Vogue in 1979 and also the first African model to sign a major cosmetics contract. She is an icon for those historic achievements but also for her impeccable style. Iman is graceful and her style choices are always elegant and chic. Now in her fifties she still looks every inch the supermodel.
To recreate Iman’s style looks above, choose rich hued garments in fluid fabrics such as satin and silk. Make sure these are well cut and of impeccable fit. Thus never wear garments that are too small or large. Top of garments with beautiful accessories; the key to Iman’s look is keeping the finished outline unfussy. So pick accessories with amazing design and cut which will work overtime. There are many style icons today but not many with Iman’s integrity; she is an active member of the Action against hunger organisation and champions varying other charitable causes.
To become a style icon I think it is imperative to have a signature look. Discover what your personal style is and choose classic pieces that interpret it. If you do not know what your personal style is consider a personal image consultation as image is everything. It is the first thing people see when they meet us. Personal image consultants assist clients in unearthing and developing their style with consideration to body proportions, lifestyle and colour tones. Style icons are not bothered by trends or fads; they might borrow certain elements from a period in keeping with their personal style. The main elements of their style stay the same.
When it comes to garments pick well fitting pieces that flatter your unique body type and skin tone. Simple cuts as opposed to overly trendy will last the test of time. These will become the classics you will wear time after time. Let your personality reflect in your accessory choices. Your accessories help differentiate you from the next person. Jackie Kennedy Onassis had her sunglasses and head scarves.
Many do not realize the importance of hair, makeup and posture in one’s overall image. Quite a few hair stylists will give free consultations, assisting you in finding a style that not only suits the shape of your head and face but also works with your personal style. This works the same way with make-up artists; get a free consultation at any good departmental store. The true mark of a style icon is that certain ‘je nai sais quoi’, which simply means that certain thing people cannot explain or put their finger fully on. This is that quiet confidence in one’s personal style and self.
As a Personal stylist I see numerous clients who have little or no self confidence, which invariably affects their style choices. A famous Marianne Williamson quote which I live by is, “We ask ourselves, ‘who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God.”
Therefore, gain inspiration from Iman, a true African style icon and be more stylish everyday with quiet confidence.