In a candid revelation, Aoki Lee Simmons, the 22-year-old daughter of renowned fashion icons Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons, announced plans to step away from modeling. During an Instagram video shared over the weekend, she expressed her growing frustration with the industry’s harsh beauty standards. “I love modeling, but it’s hard to go somewhere and get told over, and over again, ‘No, you’re not pretty enough,’” she lamented. Aoki’s experiences highlight a troubling reality within modeling—constant rejection based on subjective perceptions of beauty. This not only raises questions about the framework of the industry but also about the mental toll such scrutiny can impose on young models.
Aoki’s distress is magnified by her lineage. Having a mother who is an iconic figure in fashion can cast a long shadow. “It feels like one big fat comparison all the time,” she remarked, recognizing the inevitability of being measured against Kimora’s illustrious career. Kimora rose to fame in the 1990s as a model for prestigious names like Chanel and Versace, establishing a benchmark that can seem nearly impossible to meet. Aoki’s acknowledgement of her mother’s superior modeling prowess, while admirable, underlines a pervasive issue in the industry: the inescapable comparisons that young models face, which can severely affect self-esteem and professional aspirations.
Shifting Career Aspirations
In light of her experiences in modeling and the relentless pressure it entails, Aoki is exploring a shift towards a more stable career path. Having graduated from Harvard with a degree in international relations, she is now setting her sights on public service and government roles. In her words, she’s “working on taking a foreign service test,” displaying a determination to utilize her education in a meaningful way. This transition represents not just a career pivot but also an attempt to reclaim agency over her identity independent of her familial legacy.
While Aoki grapples with feelings of inadequacy and disappointment, she remains optimistic. Drawing strength from her mother’s timeless advice to “finish strong,” she is committed to making the most of her time in the industry, even as she prepares to pivot towards new opportunities. “While I’m still here I should do my best,” she stated, capturing a spirit of resilience that resonates with many in the face of adversity.
Aoki’s situation serves as a reminder of the complexities young professionals face when trying to establish themselves in their respective fields. Whether it’s coping with industry criticism or redefining success outside the family narrative, her story highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the pursuit of personal passion, no matter the external pressures.