Iman’s Most Iconic Beauty Moments Through the Years

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Model, entrepreneur, and activist Iman—born Zara Mohamed Abdulmajid in Somalia—arrived in New York in 1975, instantly transforming global fashion and beauty standards.

The 1975 Arrival and Defiant Early Statements

Iman stepped off the plane in New York City in 1975 and immediately established a bold visual footprint. At a press party welcoming her to the city, according to historical accounts, she wore a scarf-covered bouffant hairstyle, heavy dark eyeshadow, and short micro-brows. She had never worn makeup prior to that moment. Her early editorial work included a 1976 fashion shoot with Vogue, followed by high-profile runway appearances for Mugler. Throughout her career, she resisted reductive industry labeling.

Evolving 1980s and 1990s Runway Transformations

The 1980s brought vibrant color experimentation to Iman’s signature looks. Glossed reds, browns, and oranges dominated her lips, contrasted by adventurous styling choices like a spiked rockstar wig and dark lip at Tara Tyson’s baby shower in 1986. By the 1990s, her style shifted from lioness hairdos to avant-garde wigs. Notable appearances included a striking gray pixie cut at Herb Ritts’s birthday party, a braided beehive do at the 1996 Costume Institute Gala, and a voluminous red afro at Interview magazine’s 30th anniversary party.

Twentieth-Century Evolution and Modern Elegance

Entering the 2000s, Iman introduced fresh geometric shapes and refined cosmetics. At the 2001 VH1/Vogue Fashion Awards, she debuted a flipped bob paired with circular blush. She continuously updated this aesthetic, returning to it in 2008 with bronze bangs on a straight cut bob, deep eyes, and matte blush. By the time she attended the 2019 WWD Honors, she favored a shoulder-length middle part paired with her trademark thin brows, smokey shadow, and dark lip. Demonstrating her ongoing versatility, she attended the Invisible Beauty Premiere in 2023 showcasing modern extensions and a light lip.

She remains a foundational figure who challenged racial wage gaps, redefined international beauty standards, and built lasting business enterprises that continue to inspire contemporary generations.