Business Beauty: Take a Look at the Most Business-Savvy Black Supermodels
Iman paved the way for black models to make careers in the fashion industry, which is notoriously exclusive.
In 1994, she managed to walk and photograph the world’s top designers and was considered the world’s first black supermodel. She also launched her Iman Cosmetics, a collection of makeup and skincare products designed for black women. This line broke the rules of the beauty industry and offered a variety of items that had never been seen before. This opens the door to a historic partnership 10 years later, with a strategic partnership with Procter & Gamble leading the brand to be sold worldwide in drugstores such as Walgreens and Target. .
Iman’s money move opened the door for generations ahead to wield power in front of the cameras and in the boardroom.
01
winnie harlow
Chantelle Whitney Brown-Young, aka Winnie Harlow, competed in Cycle 21 of ANTM in 2014 and was eliminated. But that didn’t slow her down at all. Since then, she has become a very popular face in beauty and fashion brands, most recently she launched her successful sun care line, Cay Skin.
02
Naomi Campbell
Since the ’90s, Naomi Campbell has been that girl. After establishing herself as a supermodel and scoring countless sponsorship deals, she founded the charity Fashion for Relief in 2005 and has been a part of Hurricane. Raised funds for Katrina.
03
Tyra Banks
Banks has built a multi-million dollar empire across a variety of industries. Her long-running America’s Next Top Model and self-titled talk show have amassed millions of viewers. was selected as She launched her own cosmetic line and is currently co-host of America’s Got Her Talent.
04
Jasmine Tookes
As a Victoria’s Secret model, Jasmine Tookes captivated the world with her looks and wings. But that wasn’t enough. In 2021, she launched an athleisure company named Joja with her best friend Josephine Skriver, which has been very successful so far.
05
Selita Ebanks
Ebanks has garnered Forbes’ 13th highest-paid model spot, modeling for Tommy Hilfiger, Betsey Johnson, and Victoria’s Secret. After retiring from her modeling, Ebanks turned to her philanthropic work and returned to her hometown in the Cayman Islands where she launched a charity called Women’s Coalition for Empowerment and Opportunity.
06
Kimora Simmons
Discovered as a preteen, Kimora Lee Simmons became a highly sought-after model for the best brands and fashion until she retired after marrying Russell Simmons. built its own clothing empire in the 90s and 2000s with Baby Phat. To this day, she’s still making power moves, landing Baby Phat distribution deals with Forever 21 and Macy’s.
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