Kimora Lee Simmons Remembers a Unforgettable Modeling Experience with Naomi Campbell
Kimora Lee Simmons made waves as one of the leading models in the ’90s, though her journey to the runway wasn’t always as glamorous as it may seem.
“I recall flying into Milan for a shoot with Naomi Campbell,” Simmons, 50, shared exclusively in her feature, 25 Things You Don’t Know About Me, in the current issue of Us Weekly, available now. “They hurried us from the plane directly to the shoot. Naomi said, ‘Kimora, don’t let them rush us. We haven’t even had a moment to change our pahn-ties.’”
After years of success in fashion, Simmons starred in the Style Network’s Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane from 2007 to 2013. Now, the proud mother of five is set to return to reality TV with her new series, Kimora: Back in Fab Lane, debuting on E! this December.
“I hope Kimora: Back in Fab Lane demonstrates to my fans how I’m transforming just like every other woman,” Simmons expressed to Us about her show. “We all experience updates and new phases in life. Your story is never truly over.”
Continue reading for more insights from Simmons, including the designer who made her the most nervous to walk for:
- I have a soft spot for Red Lobster; it holds a lot of nostalgia for me. Midwest represent!
- I hope Kimora: Back in Fab Lane illustrates how I’m growing just like any other woman. Life includes updates and new chapters.
- I have a knack for using Post-its. They’re everywhere in my room, my closet, and around the house — it’s a Post-it frenzy!
- My first car was a BMW 335, black with peanut butter interior. Buying it made me feel like life was as smooth as peanut butter.
- The moment I was most starstruck was probably when I met either Elton John or Diana Ross — both are icons who truly raised the bar!
- The movie I could watch on repeat is either Boomerang or The Way We Were.
- Bob Mackie made me the most anxious to walk for. I was triple-booked and arrived late, and he was not happy! Thankfully, we’ve made amends.
- Richard Gere or Sean Connery were my childhood crushes — capturing that “smooth” theme again.
- If I hadn’t pursued modeling, I might have become a lawyer or a doctor. Since that didn’t happen, I’m encouraging my five kids to explore those paths. To my kids, if you’re reading: draw straws or volunteer, but our family needs a JD or an MD!
- My advice for aspiring models is to maintain a strong inner dialogue. People will debate your appearance, mannerisms, and behavior. Cultivate your own feedback loop to counter external opinions.
- My vacation spot of choice is St. Barths.
- The proudest moment of my career was closing the Chanel Haute Couture show as “the bride” in 1989 — the youngest ever! I was elated yet incredibly nervous!
- The famous individual in my contacts who always brings a smile when I see their name is Richard Branson.
- Hailing from St. Louis, home of Purina Mills, my first job was modeling in a local puppy chow ad. I remember wanting to adopt the puppy instead of cashing the check.
- I can’t forget the time I flew to Milan for a shoot with Naomi Campbell. We were whisked from the plane straight to the shoot. Naomi said, “Kimora, don’t let them rush us. We haven’t changed our pahn-ties yet!”
- Growing up, I admired my mom and Elizabeth Taylor for her philanthropy. Also, those stunning jewels!
- What I cherish most about being a mom of five is the unique ages of my children. It adds richness to parenting. Now that I have a house full of boys — it’s quite the adventure, and I love it.
Gotham/GC Images - I rarely watch television; it’s not a matter of being elitist, but rather I find it hard to concentrate and get easily distracted.
- I have checked off most items on my bucket list. It’s time to add more. Any suggestions?
- I often visit Pellequr, a spa I own in Beverly Hills, to unwind after busy days. Their Korean scrubs are heavenly. I’ve even been known to take a moment in my car before heading inside — sometimes we just need a breather.
- My fondest Baby Phat memory is filling Radio City Music Hall for our first-ever fashion show and broadcasting it live from the Times Square jumbotron.
- I can’t step out without dark sunglasses, Baby Phat lip gloss, and a smile.
- This time of year, my skincare staple is the Summer Time serum by CODAGE Paris; it’s truly transformative!
- When I was younger, I wrote myself a check for a million dollars. Years later, I cashed it. I encourage everyone to try manifestation — it costs nothing, and who knows what it might yield?
- I hope I’ve instilled in my daughters, Ming and Aoki, a sense of independence and passion for pursuing their dreams.
