The Beauty of Color

by Iman

Outlines a program of skin care and makeup for women of color, drawing on the author's experience as a supermodel and founder of a top cosmetics line to explain how to tailor a beauty regime in accordance with a woman's particular skin tone and type. 150,000 first printing.

Genres: Nonfiction, Fashion

176 pages, Hardcover

First published April 27, 2005

About the author

Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid (Somali: Iimaan Maxamed Cabdimajiid), professionally known as Iman, is a Somali-American supermodel. Iman is married to David Bowie.

Reviews

[Lesr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! So much information for those with more pigmented skin tones. I learned so much abt colors good for my skin tone and particularly enjoyed the information for hyper pigmented skin. I get these spots and I’ve never found a book that addresses them like this one. I only deducted a star because I felt the pictures were just too photoshopped. Otherwise, great info!

[Vanessa (V.C.) · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of Iman, but not necessarily a fan of makeup, but where I enjoy some of Iman's cosmetics like her lipsticks, eyeshadows, and foundations, this was a treat in many ways: this was published in a time when diversity wasn't as much the norm in the fashion world and where the makeup made by and for women of color was a novelty. It was a fight for women of color to empower themselves in recognizing that they are beautiful, and Iman embodied that so gorgeously in this simple makeup book that also serves as a profile for prominent women of color in film and fashion. Sure, people who truly love makeup and know makeup might find this a little too basic/beginner-level, and some aspects of this does feel dated and show its age with some the early 00's cultural references, but that's what I love about it, it's frozen in a time when women of color were truly coming into their own and making their mark in the beauty industry. It is also partly an autobiography, where Iman tells us some anecdotes about her life and her career. Aside from being an enjoyable, quick, and accessible read, it's also very much a coffee table book, the pictures are stunning and popping with color, and are fun to look at even if you don't read its contents. Iman has a distinct voice and regal, classy, dignified, and sophisticated presence about her that shines in her writing in the exact same way as how she shows that off in her interviews. Just as she is in interviews, she also throws a funny and shady line or two that's oh so endearing and makes her even more loveable and intriguing. I'm not sure if her beauty and makeup tips are as relevant today as when this was published, for all I know a lot of it could be dated, but then there's some comfort in knowing that hey, if Iman pulled these off, then it can't be that bad and must still be useful in some way, I could only imagine that much of what Iman knows was and still is timeless. Unfortunately, while not announced publicly or officially, it appears that Iman sold Iman Cosmetics in 2020, as the website has been inactive and her products haven't been available anywhere, not even on Amazon, ever since, so in a way this also pays tribute to her company and to her legacy as being the first Black entrepreneur for makeup by and for women of color, especially Black women. Such an invaluable resources for women of color, not only for beauty purposes, but also for the euphoric feeling of being seen and not feeling so alone in one's skin.

[Lynecia · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's Iman + Tia; two of my sheroes. What more can I say?

[Ronda Wynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I keep this book in my bathroom and it helps when I am feeling like getting super glam!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

All ladies could benefit from this book. Every now and then, I'll try to master one of the demonstrated make-up applications, it doesn't always turn out good but it's fun to try :}

[Aleasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great and easy read for anyone learning to do makeup. Lots of pictures and advice for all ages and skin types and colors!
I wish I had this book sooner.

[Winter Sophia Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Tips & Ideas! The Book Itself Is Beautiful!

[Dasia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book! I read it virtually but I think I'm going to purchase a secondhand copy to keep in my home or pass down to the young girls in my life. Not only is the information about skincare and makeup practical but pictures are provided and as a visual learner I feel seen. The beauty of color is diverse and informative. The makeup tips are easy for beginners and also standard practice. Asian, Latino, African descent, etc. All POC Can benefit from this book. Freebie: use Preparation H on your under-eyes for bags according to Eve as stated within the book.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good book with lots of helpful tips. It's not just about makeup, it's about trying to enhance your best assets and having fun. It was easy to read and gave a bunch of useful advice-I even took notes!

[Rabin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the full color photos and tips. Iman was and still is on top of her game.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much about skincare and make up! It was the perfect gift for me! Thanks Mom :D

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book, but not many women of color were displayed. I would have preferred there to be a wider range of skin tones, but I am still pleased with the knowledge gained.

[Trish · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay.