Iman’s Global Chic
Contributing Editor Cologne Schmidt writes:
I have this weird obsession with 80’s supermodels. Actually, it used to be all supermodels in general—until I moved to Soho where, I swear, there must be some kind of supermodel dormitory down my street because they are always swarming my block. Not that I am complaining—they look awesome and their lifestyles intrigue me—but 80’s catwalk queens really spark my fascination. Once upon a time, back when supermodels ruled the world, gracing the covers of every major fashion magazine (prior to the TV and tabloid celebrity take-over), a striking and leggy Somali girl was discovered while attending University in Kenya. She spoke five languages. And her name was Iman.
Fast-forward thirty-odd years, and Iman is now one of the most celebrated supermodels of all time, not to mention muse to high fashion designers such as Yves Saint Laurent. I recently found myself sitting down with Iman in her office (conveniently down the street from mine) to discuss her new entrepreneurial venture—Global Chic. The stunning mom-of-two showed me her handbag, jewelry, clothing, and cosmetic lines—which are all to-die-for and surprisingly affordable! Inspired by her world travels and created for multi-purpose lifestyles like her own (business meetings, PTA, date-night, red carpet, TV, the usual)—all her items can be found on HSN. Iman, with her awesome accent, is upbeat and driven, and I couldn’t help but smile when she would nonchalantly say ‘Oh, yes, David loves this…’ (she’s married to rock star legend David Bowie).
Favorites of the collection:
The rolley luggage suitcase that looks like an oversize handbag on wheels. Literally, the perfect travel bag—big enough for a week’s worth of clothes, small enough to fit in carry on, cute, and with optional wheels. Need. Around $100. Still need.
All the jewelry is pretty amazing…under 100$ and looks much much more. Chunky cocktail rings are divine, and my wrist is begging for the gold mother of pearl face watch and snake cuff. Want.
As far as the clothing goes—the denim stretch leggings ($29) that come in black and blue denim are probably a winter must have. I mean, when would you not want to wear them?
Lastly, and because I simply had to ask… Iman gave me her beauty secrets because you would never believe this girl is 54. She swears by Iman Cosmetics Time Control Night Cream, and All Day Moisture Complex SPF 15. When she wants to splurge, she uses the pricey but very effective SK-II 3D masks, claiming you can go all night without sleep and look like you got 8 hours in 30 minutes. She also uses Iman Cosmetics mineral enriched crème cover Concealer, which is a silicone-based and oil free concealer that effectively covers dark circles while disguising fine lines. But her real secret is sleep. Her hectic life, while raising her and Bowie’s daughter Lexi, only allots her 6 hours, but she says 7 or 8 is her favorite.
Well, Iman, don’t stop. We love what you’re doing. And say hi to Bowie for me.
Tags: Cologne Schmidt, Global Chic, Iman
