Chanel Iman Poses in Belize for Swimsuit's 60th Anniversary Edition
Supermodel and mother of three, Chanel Iman, is making a return to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit franchise to celebrate its 60th anniversary. At 33, Iman first made her mark with the brand a decade ago in Madagascar. This time, she traveled to Belize with photographer Derek Kettela for the upcoming issue.
Reflecting on her return to modeling after motherhood, Iman shared how it felt different after a long break and welcoming three children.
“As a mom, you sometimes forget and then realize, ‘Damn, you’ve still got it, girl,’” she said. “The crew made me feel so incredible and beautiful. I just had a baby four months ago, and here I am, working as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model. The energy is always special.”
A strong advocate for inclusivity, Iman has long spoken out about the lack of diversity in the fashion industry when she began her career. While there has been progress, she believes there’s still more to be done.
As a Black woman, Iman faced unique challenges breaking into fashion. But she remained determined, refusing to conform to narrow beauty standards.
“It’s cool to be different,” Iman said. “I love that I was unique and had to work harder to succeed. It means so much more to me now because I made it. And I’m still here. I’m not going anywhere. I’m so grateful to be in this position and have a voice.”
Iman shares two daughters, Cali, 5, and Cassie, 4, with ex-husband Sterling Shepard. She and her husband, NFL player Davon Godchaux, welcomed their baby girl Capri last September.
“My little girls are my world. They’re why I keep doing what I do,” she said. “I remind them every day that they are loved, worthy, and capable of anything.”
Iman and Godchaux tied the knot earlier this year, celebrating with loved ones on a yacht in the Caribbean. Their daughter Capri was named after the Italian city where Godchaux proposed.
Guadalupe Dorey
Leading the editorial, social media, and video strategy and operations for Brazil's top women's lifestyle magazine. Editor at DFashionMagazine.com, ParisModaMagazine.com and LatinoFashionMagazine.com