Chanel Iman Robinson may only be 16,

but this Culver City, Calif., native has already catwalked her way into the hearts of the fashion elite. Having strutted down runways for three years for the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, Oscar de la Renta and Marc Jacobs, Chanel, who is Korean and black, was the only woman of color on Vogue’s May 2007 cover featuring this generation’s

future supermodels.

 

You just finished up with Fashion Week in New York. How was it?

Going from one show to the next was very overwhelming. It’s a lot of fun because I’m one of those girls that likes to stay busy every second of the day. My favorite show was Heatherette. I opened for them. I had so much fun just being myself and doing my walk the way I wanted to.

What goes on in your head when you’re on the catwalk?

I feel the clothes, I feel the vibe of the music. Sometimes I’m concentrating on the clothes and what I’m wearing, seeing what I can do to make people want to buy the product. It’s just like acting. You might not like something, but I’ll make it rock regardless. Even if it’s not cute, I’ll make it cute.

Your mom used to live with you in New York, but recently moved back home. What’s it like being on your own now?

For the most part, I’m working anyway so I don’t have time to hang out with my mom. But we talk to each other every day. Also, mother and daughter need space sometimes. It’s a part of growing up.

Do you ever feel like you’re missing out on the whole high school experience?

My boyfriend goes to Hamilton High [in Los Angeles]. I still get to experience some of that when I go home. I’m going to prom when I get home. I’m still involved with teenage things.

You’re recognized in fashion circles, but are not quite a household name yet. Is that something you want someday?

I kind of do because I want to make it easier for ethnic girls to come in, whether you’re Asian or black or Hispanic or anything. I want to be a part of that new generation.