Kimora on being labeled a b*tch: “As a woman, if you’re outspoken and you know what you want, you’re a b*tch. And if you don’t know what you want, then you’re a ditz. It’s very hard to gain men’s respect, and men in the industry disrespected me all the time. Many [women] don’t know if they should speak up and run the risk of looking stupid or bitchy. I always say, ‘Go for bitchy’ ’cause they’re gonna say you’re a bitch no matter what.’ If you’re smart and you speak up, you’re a bitch. But at least you get what you want.”

 

Kimora on her relationship with Oscar-nominated actor and Calvin Klein underwear-model boyfriend Djimon Hounsou : “I’m just happy and grateful to go home to my kids and a man that loves and accepts me for me—glamorous or not.”

Kimora on marriage: “When you get married, you’re forced to drink the milk long after it’s spoiled.”

Kimora on her extreme diva status: “I hear the craziest things, like, ‘She has to have a champagne glass filled within a quarter inch of the lip. The reality, is I’m a dedicated mother [to daughters Ming Lee, 8, and Aoki Lee, 5] and a very kind, funny and hardworking person. My reality-TV show helps to shed a bit of light, but even that’s glamorized.”

Kimora on her core values: “Honour, respect, tenacity, intelligence and humour. Do your best, and live with the repercussions of your choices – good or bad.”