IMAN
The Lady Behind The Legend

Using the term supermodel to describe Iman is the equivalent of calling Bill Gates a computer programmer, or saying that Donald Trump dabbles in real estate. Iman is so much more than a model turned actress turned spokesperson, and she always has been. A true renaissance woman, Iman has balanced career (at least three at once), motherhood (her daughter Zuleka is currently studying law), marriage (twice) and activism (she campaigns tirelessly to help those in her native Somalia) as confidently and gracefully as she has walked on any haute couture runway. Upon first meeting Iman, it's not her regale stride, striking beauty (she is more breathtaking in person than on any photograph), the mellifluous tones of her voice or even the knowledge that she's married to the ueber-sexy David Bowie that captivates you. It's actually her sense of humor and hearty laugh that will charm you. Iman has one of those uproarious laughs that is contagious. It like the lady herself is sincere, magnificent and dazzling! There are so many things that we could talk to Iman about, but unfortunately time and editorial space don't permit. So for this interview we'll concentrate on her successful cosmetic line. For the past three years, Iman has been manning the helm of her "new" baby, IMAN COSMETICS, a line of skin care and makeup for Women of Color. A runaway success, the company requires and gets plenty of Iman's time --- especially since hers is not a simple figurehead position like many other celebrity named companies. Iman is very "hands on" in every aspect of the company's running. Always the consummate professional and ever-ready to share information with consumers, Iman took time out from her busy schedule to talk to us about her company, her life and HER. Here's some of our conversation: Cool Girls Japan: First off the bat, what is the correct way to pronounce your name? We know you too well to keep mispronouncing it! IMAN: You are so right (Laughs that hearty laugh)! It doesn't bother me that people mispronounce my name, I've gotten use to it. But I do thank you for asking. The correct pronunciation is E-Man. CGJ: Congratulations on the success of Iman Cosmetics. How does it make you feel to know that you have accomplished something that so many cosmetic companies failed to do for years? IMAN: Ahhh, delighted! I knew that it was the right time and that I would nail it. CGJ: What was your goal? IMAN: My goal was to create a line of products for everyday use, not simply for photography purposes. CGJ: What lead you to start your own company? IMAN: Pure frustration! I got sick and tired of mixing and matching colors. I personally had become a terrific "chemist", but as a consumer, I still hadn't found a product that addressed my needs. And I had tried every available product on the market. I was also fed up with the lack of respect that many companies showed by not manufacturing effective products that worked for Women of Color! CGJ: What do you feel is the biggest difference between Iman Cosmetics and other companies? IMAN: First and foremost, me! I'm not just lending my name to a company. I am involved one hundred percent in every aspect of manufacturing my products. From product development to marketing. I listen when women talk about what kind of products they want. I have been listening for many years. I started this company knowing what the overwhelming needs were. Also, as I said before, I am a consumer. I, like all Women of Color, want products that work for me. Products that are made with my specific needs in mind. CGJ: What does the line consist of? IMAN: We currently have 136 products. CJG: What is your personal beauty philosophy? IMAN: Be happy with yourself. I don't want to look like any other age other than my own! I am in a comfortable place now. I am enjoying myself. It is very important to like oneself. Many women sadly don't. They're always busy trying to be someone else. You must be comfortable with yourself. That's where true beauty starts. CJG: What is a typical day like for you? What regimen do you follow? IMAN: I don't believe in or use a beauty regimen. Hey, looking good takes work! It's that simple. I know some women want to hear something different, but that's the truth. Looking good and being healthy is not achieved effortlessly. You have to eat right, get enough sleep, exercise. If you don't want to follow a conventional exercise routine, walk! I walk as much as I possibly can. It works! Your heart benefits. Your body benefits. Your skin benefits. Having good cosmetics is one thing, but having good skin is better. Also, I am an early riser. I usually start my day between 5:30 am and 6:00 am. I don't like to rush so I allow enough time for everything that has to get done. CGJ: What's next for Iman Cosmetics? IMAN: We will have a fragrance and bath line. We'll also be expanding on our hair care line among a few other things. We're going to be full of surprises! And we at Cool Girls Japan can't wait!