L to R: Ermanno Servino, Roberto Cavalli, Versace, DSquared2, Dolce & Gabbana, D&G, Bottega Veneta, Blumarine, Gucci. (Click the photo for larger views)

With a name like Chanel Iman, there’s a hell of a lot of fashion legacy to live up to. Luckily, the 19-year-old model has the genes and the chops to do the name proud. In lesser hands it might just sound hokey. Chanel was one of several black models to make frequent appearances on Milan’s Spring 2010 catwalks. She was by far the busiest – booking at least nine shows, including some of the week’s biggest labels.

A guest spot by EJ at Scene in the City asks of the appearance of more “color” on the Milan runways is a harbinger of change in the industry. At the risk of sounding entirely cynical, I don’t think so. It’s more likely that there is simply a greater number of black models finding that sweet spot in their careers all at once. Afterall, fashion – much like the rest of the arts and entertainment world – loves a star… even when an unknown might actually be better qualified.

It wasn’t just Milan than loved Chanel. Whether showing funky trends or classic cuts, New York and London designers also lined up to book her.

Photos: WWD.com, style.com, nymag.com