Title: The Shopping Habits of Chanel Iman: Balancing Runway Elegance with Daily Comfort

Everyone buys clothes, but the way we shop can differ greatly. For some, shopping is a community activity; for others, it serves as a personal journey. Whether it’s an impromptu purchase or a strategic buy, our shopping behaviors mirror our identities. In Fashionista’s “How I Shop” series, we delve into the distinct shopping philosophies of fashion icons — and few shine brighter than Chanel Iman.

A supermodel since the early 2000s, Chanel Iman’s name is closely associated with elite fashion. From walking the catwalks of Versace and Dior to her role as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, Iman’s modeling history is the epitome of fashion storytelling. Yet, beneath the shine and spectacle is a woman with a grounded, considerate attitude toward style and shopping.

Born Into Fashion

Iman’s passion for fashion seems almost destined. Her mother, an aspiring designer, named her after Coco Chanel and introduced her to sewing and tailoring from a young age. “I was practically born into fashion,” Iman shares. She fondly remembers creating outfits for her American Girl dolls with her mother — a pivotal experience that ignited her enduring love for personal style.

At just 12, Iman found herself strutting down the New York Fashion Week runway after finishing third in a Ford Models competition. Her career took off from that moment, landing her on the covers of Vogue and showcasing her talent for prestigious fashion houses.

The Victoria’s Secret Milestone

One of Iman’s most cherished experiences is her first appearance as a Victoria’s Secret Angel. “They had given me several pairs of wings to wear in one show, and it marked my very first time trying wings,” she recalls. “I truly felt like a real, genuine ‘angel’ — which I embodied.”

From Runway to Real Life: Shopping as a Mom

As a mother of four and the visionary behind the lifestyle brand Chasa, Iman’s shopping habits have shifted. Comfort and practicality take precedence, yet style remains intact. “I constantly seek comfort, but I still want to feel great in whatever I’m wearing,” she states.

Her preferred outfit? A pair of Levi’s jeans, a Re/Done T-shirt, and either Dr. Martens boots or black heels. “I’ve been wearing that combination since my teenage years,” she explains. “Typically, a model’s wardrobe is quite basic because you are consistently going to castings.”

Location-Based Style

Iman’s closet mirrors her globetrotting lifestyle. “When I’m in Florida, I lean towards lighter, more breezy dresses. In New York, I prefer chic, all-black, fashion-forward ensembles,” she shares. “Essentially, I have a wardrobe suited for every occasion and destination.”

Her Favorite Brands and Shopping Philosophy

Iman remains loyal to brands that offer quality alongside timeless elegance. Levi’s is a consistent presence in her wardrobe, while Re/Done is her preferred choice for durable, stylish tees. She also has a fondness for Chanel — especially their iconic chain bags, which she actively collects.

“My initial splurge was a pair of Chanel heels,” she reveals. “When you’re a struggling model aiming to succeed in the fashion world, a great pair of heels can instill a profound sense of confidence during castings.”

Red Carpet Glamour

Though her daily style is more relaxed, Iman goes all out for red carpet occasions. Collaborating with stylist Monica Rose, she favors long gowns with slits and strappy sandals. Many of her standout looks have come from Zuhair Murad — including the gown she wore at the Cannes Film Festival and her wedding dress.

“I adored my Met Gala appearance in 2012. I wore Tom Ford and accompanied him as his date. It was truly epic,” she reminisces.

Shopping with Intuition

Iman adopts an intuitive approach to shopping. “Sometimes when I spot something on Instagram that appeals to me, I’ll typically place an order. Otherwise, my shopping is driven by intuition — by what feels right,” she explains. Her stylist also introduces her to up-and-coming designers, which keeps her wardrobe contemporary and stylish.

Launching Chasa: Fashion Meets Function

With a wealth of experience wearing high-quality pieces, Iman recognizes quality when she sees it. That insight led to the creation of Chasa, a home and lifestyle brand dedicated to cozy, top-notch apparel. “I wanted to ensure everything adhered to my quality expectations,” she states.

Legacy Pieces

Some of Iman’s most cherished fashion possessions are the shoes she donned during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows. “Those shoes in my closet hold a special meaning for me because I worked tirelessly for them, and I was fortunate enough to bring them home for my daughters.”

Conclusion

Chanel Iman’s shopping preferences embody a seamless fusion of high-fashion roots and everyday practicality. Whether she is gracing a red carpet or chasing her children,