CD WOMAN OF THE YEAR 2025
Authored by CD Magazine
IMAAN ROSE
Imaan Rose is an image architect, a stylist who builds identity the way some people build empires. One of one. Her work is less about outfits and more about vision, shaping how people see themselves and how the world sees them back. In a time where everybody wants to look like everybody else, she moves differently. She studies silhouettes, moods, and moments, crafting looks that feel intentional, personal, and impossible to copy. 2025 pushed her to refine her voice and expand her craft, and now she steps into the new year with sharper instincts, bigger ambition, and a style philosophy rooted in originality.
How was 2025 for you? What are some things that you have learned this year?
2025 was the most transformative year yet. Everything has changed for me this year, yet, I’m more myself than I’ve ever been. One fateful day, I decided that nothing and no one will ever get in the way of my dreams again. From that moment onwards, I chose to return to myself. As a result, this year, Inherited by Imaan was reignited and reborn.
The year of the snake truly lived up to its name. I shed old versions of myself, the snakes in the grass emerged and I beheaded them. I detached myself from people and environments that took more than they gave.
Resigning from Seconds Collective was single handedly the best thing to have happened this year. I walked away from a space and a person who benefited from, took credit for, and took advantage of my intellect, kindness and talent. I realized that just because I helped build a house, does not mean I am meant to stay inside it. I didn’t just grow- I outgrew. I’m so glad certain things didn’t work out, my reclaimed life is much better anyways.
This was the year I chose myself, and not in a selfish way. I stopped catering to other people’s dreams and invested in my own. As a result, I was able to independently open and operate Inherited’s first ever storefront - entirely detached from the input, opinions and permission of others.
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The store has been a roaring success and a true testament of resilience, unwavering belief and determination. Since opening shop in August, my business has grown, countless opportunities and connections have been presented to me.
Inherited has always been so much more than just clothes. Opening a physical storefront has amplified my ethos of community building and encouraging expression and individuality. Every single interaction with my supporters has truly uplifted and set my soul on fire. I couldn’t be more grateful for the love and encouragement that I receive every single day. Inherited would not be possible without the people who stand behind me and for that, I am eternally grateful.
I must remember that who I am now only exists because I returned to and chose myself at the darkest of times. I proved that I am able to thrive despite discomfort, uncertainty and the unknown. 2025 was the year I honoured the importance of living authentically and unapologetically.
What is one thing you’re leaving behind as you enter 2026?
I’m leaving so many things behind as we enter 2026. Most importantly, I’m laying self doubt to rest. I am leaving behind the version of me who tolerated being undervalued and overlooked. I am leaving behind the fear of starting from nothing, all alone. I release myself from the people and places that benefited from my talent but didn’t respect it. These situations and feelings have no place in my next chapter of evolution.
In previous years, I have only allowed polished edits and final projects to be a reflection and representation of my brand. Although it may be pretty, this is not the most authentic version of myself or Inherited. In 2025, I learned that people are most responsive to and invested in the personal side of the brand - my process, my thoughts and what goes on behind the scenes- not just in my work, but also in my daily endeavours. With this in mind, I chose to leave behind the fear of being judged or perceived. Instead, I intend on amplifying all of the quirks, realities and intricacies that makes Inherited so niche. I am very excited to release myself from this version of perfection and to share a raw and authentic experience of what Inherited really is.
What’s your theme for 2026? Do you have any plans for the new year?
Strategy. Entity. Prosperity. I am entering the new year with a fire under my ass, a new found confidence, vulnerability and unwavering belief.
2026 is my empire era. I have some major expansions and developments in the works for Inherited and Imaan which I am eager to bring to fruition. One of my main goals for 2026 is to develop Inherited by Imaan as an entity. One that is unapologetically and authentically raw and personal.
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​This year, I seek to be more vulnerable and let everyone in. I’m truly blessed to be living within a fully embodied world of creativity, entrepreneurship, collaboration and uniqueness. I intend on capitalizing on that this year by developing a more personalized presence across platforms, inviting my followers into my creative process and developing Inherited as not just a clothing brand, but a way of life.
I seek to inspire people to crave the taste of ambition until it ruins their appetite for mediocracy. I no longer chase opportunities, I attract them. I will not be waiting for doors to open, instead, I’ll build the whole damn house.
I have some very exciting news to announce soon. I don’t want to say too much now, just know that in 2026, Inherited is making big moves - one that allows for an elevated and immersive experience. This next chapter is very full circle and I cannot wait for the growth and lessons that will be presented to me in this new chapter.