Scouted and signed in her early teens, the Egyptian/Moroccan mega-model and V alum returns to cover our V159 Spring 2026 issue in Haider Ackermann’s second collection for Tom Ford. In a season dominated by buzzy designer debuts, fashion’s spotlight has fixated on first impressions. And while it’s thrilling to witness new visions take shape, it’s perhaps even more compelling to see Ackermann refine and deepen his already assured, sultry take on the notoriously seductive house.

That sense of stepping into something you’ve worked toward for years feels familiar to Imaan Hammam. Reflecting on the parallels between a designer presenting their first collections and a model’s first runway shows, she says, “There’s excitement and fear at the same time. But there’s also pride—because regardless of the outcome, you’ve reached a moment you worked hard for.”

V: What’s your favorite part about spring? Are there any fond memories you associate with the season?

Imaan Hammam: Spring has always felt like a reset for me. There’s a lightness to it—longer days, softer air, and this sense that anything can begin again. It reminds me of growth and possibility, both personally and creatively. Some of my fondest memories are tied to early career moments during springtime—first shows, first travels—when everything still felt new and full of wonder.

V: Many of the Spring 2026 collections were debuts for certain designers, opening a larger conversation on fashion’s need for renewal. How are you feeling about the recent creative shake-ups at these fashion houses?

IH: I think the shake-ups are both necessary and exciting. Fashion needs renewal—it’s part of the natural cycle of creativity. After a certain period, new energy, new perspectives, and new voices are essential. Giving others a chance allows the industry to keep evolving rather than standing still.

V: What excites you most about the current state of modeling today?

IH: I feel deeply grateful for everything I’ve experienced so far—the milestones, but also the hurdles I had to overcome. At the same time, I think the future of modeling looks bright. This new generation feels refreshing and diverse, and I’m curious to see how the industry evolves in a time when AI and technology are becoming more present. It’s a moment of transition, and that’s always interesting.

V: A designer’s debut collection is often a statement of identity. Do you remember what you wanted your first major season to say about you? How did you personally manage the pressure of being ‘introduced’ to the industry?

IH: During my first major season, I was fully focused on the work itself—learning, showing up, and navigating the industry. I didn’t really allow myself the space to think about how I was being perceived. It was about discipline, consistency, and staying grounded. In a way, that focus helped me manage the pressure because I wasn’t trying to define myself—I was just doing the work.

V: What do you think are the parallels between a model’s first runway moment and a designer presenting their first collection?

IH: Both moments are incredibly vulnerable. You’re putting yourself out there for the first time, knowing you’ll be seen, judged, and interpreted. There’s excitement and fear at the same time. But there’s also pride—because regardless of the outcome, you’ve reached a moment you worked hard for.

V: Have you ever felt like you were growing alongside a designer who was just starting out? What was that experience like?

IH: Yes, and it’s one of the most rewarding experiences. I’ve always loved fashion and creativity, even as a child, and while I’ve been fortunate to work with iconic designers, I’m always drawn to emerging talent. Supporting someone, believing in their vision, and watching them grow is really special. There is so much talent out there, and it’s beautiful to witness that evolution.

V: Are there any designers from the current fashion landscape whose work you feel especially connected to?

IH: I’m very curious and inspired by Matthieu Blazy’s vision. His first collection felt like a breath of fresh air—poetic, modern, and thoughtful. Beyond his talent, he’s also one of the kindest and most genuine people I’ve worked with, which makes that creative connection even stronger.

This story appears in the pages of V159: now available for purchase!

Photography Chris Colls
Fashion George Cortina
Model Imaan Hammam (DNA)
Editor-in-Chief / Creative Director Stephen Gan
Makeup Mark Carrasquillo (Streeters)
Hair Bob Recine
Manicure Honey (Exposure)
Casting Goran Macura
Executive Producer Dana Brockman (Viewfinders)
Producer Max Bonbrest (Viewfinders)
Production Assistant T. Harper
Digital Technician Jeanine Robinson
Movement Director Marly Phillips Nicol
Director of Editorial Film Mynxii White
Location Untitled Studios
Equipment Alex Bova
Photo Assistants Daniil Zaikin, Ben Carhartt
Styling Assistants Moses Moreno, Trevor McMullan,
Jared Benhart, Mary Reinehr Gigler
Tailor Yaqi Sun (Atelier YQS)
Makeup Assistants Shoko Sawatari, Yuui Vision
Hair Assistant Shinya Iwamoto
Set Designer Happy Massee (La La Land)
Set Design Assistant Kevin Murphy