Iman is an international fashion icon, having graced major runaways and many fashion photo spreads. Since 1994, she has been a businesswoman. She is the founder and CEO of IMAN Cosmetics. The company makes cosmetics and skincare products for women of all color tones. Despite the bad economy, her company is making about $25 million. Iman was featured on Black Enterprise Business Report; the video is featured on the website.
The short interview featured a look into her transition from model to businesswoman. Her inspiration for the company came from an experience while doing a photo shoot. The makeup artist informed her he did not have makeup for her skin color. From there, Iman built her company. She stated on the interview “It’s not about race but skin tone”. The reality is most major cosmetic lines do not carry makeup for women of color or have enough range to include the different multitude of tones and shades for such women. Her company not only fixes her problem but also feeds a much-ignored consumer demographic, women of color who wear makeup. From my experience, the makeup industry is still lacking in recognizing women of color as a consumer. Quite frankly, as a paying consumer, I’m pissed. Yet, I’m also satisfied to know some major lines are making an effort to feed my demographic and that Iman has done this for many years.
The business point is she found an audience and became one of the only companies to satisfy this audience’s needs. As an entrepreneur, one can sometimes find inspiration by appealing to ignored groups. The meaning of group can include a giant range. Example: Todd Greene found it hard to shave his head so he created a modified razor to fit in his hand and now he runs HeadBlade; it satisfies bald men. His story was featured on “How I Made My Millions” by CNBC.
Iman is a great businesswoman. Despite other cosmetic companies similar to hers and the economy, her company stays successful. Now, Iman also sells fashion handbags and accessories on Home Shopping Network and is the host “The Fashion Show” on Bravo.
No comments:
Post a Comment