At 70, style icon Iman proved once again that age is irrelevant to true glamour as she stole the show at The Fashion Awards ceremony in London on December 1st. The Somali model and widow of David Bowie captivated attendees, including fellow fashion figures like Lila Moss and Helena Christensen, by appearing in a breathtaking, sculpted Harris Reed gown. The annual event, organized by the British Fashion Council, serves as a crucial fundraiser for the Education Foundation, supporting gifted fashion students, but for many, it became a masterclass in high fashion and timeless grace demonstrated by Iman.
Iman’s chosen attire—a luxurious gown from the Harris Reed Spring/Summer 2026 collection featuring a cinched corset and a figure-hugging “mermaid” skirt—was instantly acclaimed. Social media erupted with praise, with users expressing disbelief that the stunning look belonged to a 70-year-old. Comments lauded her posture, grace, and completely modern aesthetic, noting she wasn’t trying to look younger but was simply “living in harmony in her own body.” The consensus was that Iman’s presence transcended age, setting a benchmark for mature female beauty and true model status, devoid of filters and outdated glamour.
Iman’s legendary status in the industry began in the late 1970s after photographer Peter Beard discovered her in 1975, leading her to New York and quickly establishing her as a muse for many renowned designers over the decades. This enduring professional relevance is highlighted by her ability to remain the focus of a major contemporary fashion event, continuing to work with celebrated designers like Harris Reed well into her seventies, demonstrating that charisma and good grooming outlast chronological age.
Her international fame was amplified by her famous personal life and enduring partnership with musician David Bowie. The couple met in 1990 on a blind date orchestrated by their mutual friend, hairdresser Teddy Antolin, and were married two years later. Their relationship was celebrated for its stability and deep connection, which lasted until Bowie’s death in 2016 at age 69, a loss that profoundly impacted Iman.
Despite Bowie’s passing, Iman maintains a powerful connection to him, refusing to use the term “late husband.” In a 2024 interview with InStyle, she insisted, “He is my husband… He is still with me,” emphasizing the enduring mark he left on her life. She described him as the “perfect person” for her and expressed happiness at having experienced such profound love. This deep emotional grounding and clarity is often cited by fans as the source of the remarkable beauty and poise she continues to display, making her a style icon whose influence is based on personal strength as much as fashion.