Aoki Lee Simmons, the daughter of model Kimora Lee Simmons and music mogul Russell Simmons, announced that she plans to leave the modeling industry after criticisms about her looks and comparisons to her famous mom.
via: Page Six
“I think I’m probably wrapping up modeling soon,” the 22-year-old daughter of Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons shared via an Instagram video over the weekend.
“I love modeling, but it’s hard to go somewhere and get told over, over, and over [again], ‘No, no, no, you’re not pretty enough,’ that’s not a fun time … it’s a hard industry.”
Aoki shared it is difficult living up to her mom’s reputation as an iconic former fashion model for Chanel, explaining she is always compared to Kimora.
“It feels like one big fat comparison all the time,” the model said. “Like, OK [I’m] not as good. I get that. My mom is always going to be a way better model than me.
“But it’s just annoying to have that comparison sometimes.”
Kimora, who started modeling as a teenager, was first signed with Chanel before hitting the runway with fashion houses Fendi and Valentino and appearing on the cover of Bazaar and Elle.
In the ’90s she also modeled for Armani, Versace and Calvin Klein, per Essence.
Aoki, who was on the way to a modeling gig when she stopped to take the clip, also told fans she did not get the gig to walk in the forthcoming Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show but was “happy” for those who did.
The Harvard graduate explained she is currently working toward using her degree in international relations to get a job in government.
Aoki shared she is working on taking a foreign service test.
For now, Aoki is attempting to keep her head up with the advice of her mom to “finish strong.”
“While I’m still here I should do my best,” she continued. “I hope I don’t sound whiny.”
The fashionista often shares her various modeling campaigns via social media.
See, now Kendall Jenner, Kaia and Presley Gerber, Grace Burns (daughter of Claudia Schiffer), Leni Klum, and Sistine Stallone would never give in to the haters so easily.
As long as you exist on this planet you will forever be seen as a nepo baby, and will be compared to your famous parent.
People are always going to have something to say, and I'm sure Kimora had to endure some of the same shade you're going through, if not worse, especially being of mixed race.
Aoki says she wants to work for the government. Modeling is a short-term gig, so if her passion is in other areas, then by all means good luck on your latest venture.
Comments