Rumor has it that Kimora Lee Simmons has just taken Russell Simmons' Phat Farm organization right from
under his nose.
Earlier this week it was announced that the former model was
being promoted to become the new creative director for the entire Phat
Fashions enterprise - a role previously held by her soon-to-be
ex-husband Russell. And Russell, well, he was asked to leave the
company. Had Russell not been fired, he would have been Kimora's direct
boss.
A source said Kimora gave the company an ultimatum, either Russell goes - or
she does. Tells the company insider, "Kimora is extremely valuable to
this organization. So when she asked to have Russell fired, we went
along with her." The insider continued, "It was sad for everyone to
know that Russell, the man who founded the company, was getting pushed
out. But it was in the best interest of the company. And we're sure
he'll do fine in his next endeavor"
Russell Simmons' Phat Farm initially launched the Baby Phat line in
2000. Since then, Baby Phat, which was created and managed by Kimora,
has expanded to become the premiere female hip-hop brand. During the same period, sales of Phat Farm clothing and accessories
have fallen off significantly. According to estimates, this year's
sales of Baby Phat clothing will more than quadruple that of Phat Farm.
