Supermodel, entrepreneur, and mom to three girls, Chanel Iman has traded the catwalk for a life of intentional living in her South Florida home. We caught up with the stunner between a work trip to Cannes and a family vacation in Africa to learn how her new lifestyle brand embodies her philosophy of comfort and purpose.
BY ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
PHOTOGRAPHY: NICK GARCIA
FASHION DIRECTION: DENISA PALSHA
STYLING ASSISTANT: ARTURO SU
ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA: Your various ventures frequently take you away, yet your Miami home clearly remains a cornerstone of your life. Could you share the story behind building it?
CHANEL IMAN: Building our home in Miami from the ground up was a dream come true, and one of the most exciting aspects was having the freedom to design spaces that truly reflect how we live as a family. As a mother of three, creating an environment that balances functionality with warmth was key. We focused heavily on open-concept areas that allow for easy flow between the kitchen, living, and outdoor spaces—perfect for keeping an eye on the kids while cooking or entertaining. We also made sure each child had a space that felt uniquely theirs, while still keeping a cohesive design throughout the house. Natural light, durable materials, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection were priorities—especially in South Florida, where we spend so much time outside. Ultimately, our home is a reflection of our everyday life: busy, full of energy, and grounded in family connection.
AN: Given your love for interior design, what are some of your favorite local Miami spots for sourcing inspiration or unique pieces for your home?
CI: Miami is such a rich source of inspiration when it comes to interior design. I love exploring the Design District—it’s full of high-end showrooms, art galleries, and boutique furniture stores that always spark new ideas. I also enjoy visiting Wynwood for its bold, artistic vibe. The street art, local makers, and eclectic shops there constantly remind me to think outside the box.
AN: Miami offers a unique blend of glamour and relaxation. How does the city influence your daily routine, from your fitness regimen to your family activities?
CI: Miami’s energy definitely sets the tone for our daily routine. The city’s mix of glamour and laid-back coastal living keeps us active and inspired. I love starting my mornings with a run or a workout outdoors—whether it’s along the beach or in one of the beautiful parks. The weather almost always invites you outside, which makes staying active feel less like a chore and more like a lifestyle. As a family, we take full advantage of what Miami has to offer. Weekends often include beach days, bike rides, or exploring local spots together. There’s always something happening, but there’s also this relaxed rhythm to life here that helps us stay grounded. It’s a city that encourages both movement and mindfulness, and that balance has really shaped how we live day-to-day.
AN: Beyond the beautiful beaches, what hidden gems or local experiences in Miami have you discovered that truly encapsulate the luxury lifestyle you embrace?
CI: While Miami’s beaches are a big part of the lifestyle here, I’ve found that some of the most luxurious experiences are tucked away in its incredible dining scene. Places like Casa Neo offer that perfect mix of exclusivity and atmosphere. Sparrow Italia is another favorite, especially for its chic ambiance:—it’s the kind of place where every detail feels intentional and the food is so good. And Casa Tua is timeless; dining there always feels intimate and effortlessly elegant, whether it’s a special occasion or just a quiet night out.
AN: How has your personal style evolved since moving to Miami, and what defines “luxury “ for you now?
CI: Since moving to Miami, my personal style has definitely evolved to reflect the city’s vibrant, sun-soaked energy. There’s a natural shift toward effortless elegance—light fabrics, bold colors, and statement pieces that feel polished but never overdone. I’ve embraced a more relaxed, coastal sophistication that still honors my love for structure and detail, just with a softer, more fluid edge. Luxury, for me now, isn’t just about labels or high fashion—it’s about intentionality. It’s how something fits into my life and makes me feel. Whether it’s a beautifully tailored dress that moves with me, or a quiet moment of calm in the middle of a busy day with my family, true luxury is about comfort, confidence, and quality—both in style and in lifestyle.
AN: What is one enduring fashion philosophy you’ve always held onto, and what advice would you give to aspiring models today?
CI: To aspiring models, I’d say: Know your worth, protect your energy, and always treat modeling as both an art and a business.
AN: Chasa, your new home and lifestyle brand, is deeply personal, stemming from your early modeling days and the comfort you found in simple items. How has your experience as a supermodel informed the development and ethos of Chasa?
CI: My modeling career taught me the value of balance—after long, chaotic days, it was the simple, grounding comforts that made all the difference. With Chasa, I wanted to bring that feeling of calm, beauty, and intention into everyday living.
AN: Chasa emphasizes comfort and luxury. What was the most challenging product to perfect in your initial collection, and what message do you hope to convey through the brand’s offerings
CI: The robe was the most challenging to perfect—we wanted it to feel like a warm embrace without sacrificing elegance. Through Chasa, I hope to share that true luxury is found in the everyday moments of comfort and care.
AN: What personal need or gap in the market did you specifically aim to fill when you first conceived the idea for Chasa?
CI: I wanted to fill the gap between high-end luxury and everyday comfort—creating pieces that feel and look effortlessly comfortable but are truly wearable and nurturing for real life.
AN: Looking ahead, where do you envision Chasa in the next five years, and what are your aspirations for expanding the brand’s reach and product lines?
CI: I see Chasa becoming a go-to for luxury home goods worldwide, expanding into new categories like home essentials and wellness products—always focused on comfort, quality, and mindful living.
