L'HISTOIRE: Iman’s Head-to-Toe Leopard Getup at a 1991 Bulgari Party

L’HISTOIRE explores fashion history moments you should know, from what actors wore on a red carpet to celebrities who made cameos on the runway. Some are unsung, and some are better known. Each is part of the fabric of today’s fashion world, be it barrier breakers or culture makers.

There are few models that hold as much weight simply by one name: Iman. In September 1991, she and her then-beau David Bowie attended a Bulgari soirée at the Palace of Versailles in Paris—and her look was striking as ever.

The supermodel donned a form-fitting, striking leopard print dress that showcased her statuesque figure. Its bold pattern highlighted her adventurous fashion sense, while the dress's sleek silhouette emphasized her timeless beauty. Complementing her look, Iman wore her hair in voluminous curls, which only enhanced the overall glamour she achieved in the ensemble. She accessorized with a matching leopard print purse in hand and boots, which still allowed the statement dress to remain the focal point, making this quite a loud addition to Bowie’s classic tuxedo.

The Somali-born supermodel rose from university student to international stardom after being discovered by photographer Peter Beard. She later moved to the United States and quickly became a favorite in the fashion world, gracing the covers of prestigious magazines and serving as a muse for top designers. In 1992, she married English musician David Bowie (who passed away in 2016), and they had one child together.

Iman’s influence on Black models today is undeniable. As one of the first supermodels to break racial barriers in the fashion industry, she paved the way for greater diversity and representation. Her boldness in demanding inclusive beauty standards challenged industry norms, allowing the next generation to embrace their unique features without compromise. Today, models like Adut Akech and Anok Yai credit Iman’s trailblazing legacy for empowering them to take up space confidently. Her impact resonates not only on the runway but also in the broader cultural conversation about beauty, identity, and empowerment.

Leopard print is a chic classic for a reason, and Iman’s bodycon dress was a clear example of this. To emulate the look, we also suggest going for a mini dress version of it (like this one by Norma Kamali), that has the same neckline as the one Iman wore. Accessorize with a pair of ankle strap heels and a simple top handle bag in hand. Go for full volume when styling your hair like Iman did, and finish off your look with a sharp cat eye and sultry red lip.