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Isabella Strahan is living life to the fullest.
The 20-year-old daughter of Michael Strahan, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in October 2023 and declared cancer-free in July 2024, is the new face of Kenneth Cole’s spring campaign titled “Purposeful Voices.” Labeled by the brand as an “advocate for hope” and never giving up, Strahan was the perfect choice to model the new collection.
The college student was stoked to dress up and take part of this meaningful campaign.
“Being on set for this campaign was amazing,” Strahan tells PEOPLE exclusively. “I had the best time meeting everyone, and I was so comfortable. I went in the day before shooting the campaign for a fitting, and I was greeted with such kindness.”
The brand invited Strahan to model seven looks — “Isabella’s Picks” — from the spring 2025 women’s ready-to-wear collection designed by Emily Cole, daughter of Kenneth Cole and the brand’s newly appointed EVP, women’s creative director & product strategy.
Strahan selected everything from a button-down with a pleated skort to a double-denim look in gradient dye. And she even chose a sparkly look for a bit of extra flair!
“We paired together lots of options, but ultimately ended up wearing what felt most like my style and my everyday look,” Strahan shares. “I love that I had input, and I got to wear clothes that I felt comfortable in and loved.”
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The spring collection is rich with earth tones, says Cole, and encompasses everything the Kenneth Cole brand is known for: effortless, elevated and comfortable.
“In an era where technology increasingly shapes every aspect of our lives, we believe this return to simplicity and natural elements offers a grounding sense of balance—especially in today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle,” Cole says in a press release.
While shooting the photos and filming the video for the campaign — all lensed by Carlos Serrao — Strahan had a blast on set being a model, she says. The vibes were unmatched thanks in part to an awesome playlist.
“I got input on the music, and I always love to play Beyoncé and Rihanna!” she says of the soundtrack while they worked. Even the catering was top-notch, she notes, and she jokes she probably went back “three times” at lunch because it was so “delicious.”
Strahan is back studying at USC after her brain cancer battle cut her freshman year short. Now that she’s able to focus more of her time on extracurriculars, she says she’s able to do things like “experiment” with her style.
“Growing up, my twin sister [Sophia] and I were dressed by my mom, usually sporting the same clothes,” she says. Now, though, she’s stepping into her own and “trying to find” her niche.
Working with the Kenneth Cole team has not only allowed her to explore fashion, it’s allowed her to share her journey. She says that having the brand ask her to be a “Purposeful Voice” means “the world” to her.
“It made me realize my words and actions do have power,” she tells PEOPLE. “I’m so honored to be a part of the campaign. I truly am inspired by all the work the brand does.”
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The Kenneth Cole brand has focused on social impact initiatives, specifically mental health and well-being through the Kenneth Cole Foundation for more than 40 years. The Foundation supports a number of organizations, including Planned Parenthood, the Mental Health Coalition and Help USA.
Strahan kicks off a new series of “Purposeful Voices,” which furthers Kenneth Cole’s message of hope. The mindset that got her through her treatment — that “giving up was never an option” — became the feature of the campaign.
And now, Strahan is looking ahead to all the fun things she has coming up this year.
“This year is my first year recovering, so I’m looking forward to this summer without treatment and spending time with my family and friends … and all while looking cute in Kenneth Cole,” she says.
Shop the spring collection, including Isabella’s Picks, online and in stores now.
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