Aoki Lee Simmons: Modeling Success, Insights from Mom Kimora, and Embracing the Present (Exclusive)

Aoki Lee Simmons Talks Modeling Career, More

Courtesy of BCBG

Aoki Lee Simmons is all set to shine in the spotlight. The 21-year-old daughter of supermodel Kimora Lee Simmons and music executive Russell Simmons is passionate about fashion. (Kimora and Russell, who divorced in 2009 after 11 years of marriage, also have a 24-year-old daughter named Ming Lee Simmons.)

After graduating from Harvard last year, Aoki is now taking her modeling career to new heights. Following her success at the Sergio Hudson runway during New York Fashion Week in February 2023, she is now starring in BCBG New York’s spring 2024 collection visuals.

In the campaign, Aoki showcases the vibrant pieces from the high-end brand. From a sunny yellow slip dress to a pink and red color block frock, a crisp white two-piece, bold cobalt trousers, and more, she exudes confidence and style.

Aoki Lee Simmons Talks Modeling Career, More

Courtesy of BCBG

A representative for BCBG New York expressed that the brand embodies modern femininity and the seamless transition from day to night style, reflecting the captivating duality of a woman's fashion-forward and post-graduate lifestyle.

In an exclusive interview with We, Aoki shared her mutual admiration for the brand. She mentioned that she has been a long-time fan of BCBG, recalling how she used to borrow her mom's BCBG outfits for various occasions. BCBG has always been a reliable choice for her family, a constant go-to option.

Aoki has not only inherited an affinity for BCBG from Kimora, but also valuable modeling advice. During the Sergio Hudson show, Aoki shared that her mom coached her as she walked down the runway. "My mom was literally trying to coach me while I walked down the runway during the Sergio Hudson show," Aoki told Us. "I walked by and she yelled, 'SHOULDERS!' Since I started my career, my mom has given me a lot of helpful advice, but I also appreciate the amount of space she has given me to make my own way. She’s allowing me to figure it out."

Surprisingly owning the catwalk wasn’t always a priority for Aoki. 

Aoki Lee Simmons Talks Modeling Career, More

Aoki reminisced about her time as a young model walking down the runway for Baby Phat shows. She often closed out the shows with Ming and Kimora in the early 2000s. A lot of Aoki and Ming’s childhood was captured on Kimora’s reality TV series Life in the Fab Lane, which aired from 2007 to 2011.

Kimora started the lifestyle label in 1999, which was a spin-off of the men's streetwear line, Phat Pharm, founded by her then-husband Russell in 1992. After closing in 2010, Baby Phat was brought back by Kimora in 2019.

Aoki, who is Kimora's daughter, shared, "At the time it just seemed natural and fun, but I'm also into nerdy stuff. I love school and learning, so getting an education was natural too." Aoki made history by graduating from Harvard at the age of 20, becoming the youngest Black woman to accomplish this feat. She was accepted at the age of 16.

Since receiving her cap and gown, Aoki expressed her desire to focus on modeling.

"I am looking forward to working as a full-time model. I enjoy being in the company of creative individuals and collaborating on a high level is a privilege that I truly appreciate," Aoki said.

Aoki is fully dedicated to her modeling career and is making an effort to stay present and focused. She believes there is a lot to discover in the industry and is keeping an open mind to embrace any unexpected opportunities that come her way.

Aoki recently appeared in the BCBG visuals while making headlines for her romance with restaurateur Vittorio Assaf. The couple, who were seen showing affection during a trip to St Barts, have been confirmed to be enjoying each other's company by a source who spoke to People on April 5th.

Editor's P/S:

Aoki Lee Simmons, the daughter of fashion icon Kimora Lee Simmons, is making waves in the modeling industry with her stunning visuals and confident presence. Despite her childhood in the spotlight, Aoki pursued an education at Harvard University, graduating as the youngest Black woman at the age of 20. Now, she is embracing her passion for fashion and showcasing her modeling prowess in BCBG New York's spring 2024 collection.

Aoki's journey is a testament to her multi-faceted nature. She balances her intellectual pursuits with her artistic endeavors, showcasing both her academic excellence and her creative flair. Her collaboration with BCBG reflects the brand's embodiment of modern femininity and the seamless transition from day to night style, resonating with Aoki's own personal style. With her determination and the support of her family, Aoki is poised to achieve great success in the fashion world while continuing to inspire young women everywhere.