Jessie and D'Lila Combs: Why the Twins Are Forging a Different Path

Jessie and D'Lila Combs: Why the Twins Are Forging a Different Path

Growing up in the spotlight isn't just about the cameras. For Jessie and D’Lila Combs, it’s basically been their entire reality since birth. You’ve probably seen them on Instagram or TikTok, usually rocking matching outfits and looking like the spitting image of their late mother, Kim Porter. But honestly, there is a lot more going on with these two than just "twinning" for the ‘gram.

Lately, people are talking. A lot. Between their father Sean “Diddy” Combs’ massive legal battles and their own sudden transition into adulthood, the twins are at a major crossroads. They aren't just "Diddy’s daughters" anymore. They are 19-year-old women making some pretty bold moves that have even their most loyal followers doing a double-take.

The Decision to Skip College

Here is the thing that caught everyone off guard: they aren't going to college. In a world where celebrity kids usually head off to USC or NYU (like their sister Chance, who is currently at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts), Jessie and D’Lila decided to take a hard left.

During an Instagram Live, they basically told their 765,000+ followers that they’re focusing on their careers instead. "College is great, but it’s not for everyone," they said. It’s a risky move, but they seem dead set on building an empire that doesn't rely on a degree. Instead of textbooks, they’re leaning into 12TWINTY1, their fashion brand named after their December 21st birthday.

Modeling Is in the DNA

If you look at photos of Kim Porter from the 90s and then look at the twins today, it’s actually kind of eerie. The resemblance is striking. They aren't just hobbyists; they’ve already walked for Dolce & Gabbana in Venice and recently opened the Ellaé Lisqué 10th-anniversary show in Hollywood.

People think they just showed up and walked. Nope. They’ve been studying this since they were toddlers, watching their mom get ready for shoots.

  • Venice Runway: Their 2021 debut with Dolce & Gabbana was the "dream come true" moment.
  • Magazine Covers: They’ve already graced Vanity Fair, V Magazine, and Essence.
  • The Walk: They claim they didn’t even hire modeling coaches. They say the "strut" is just in their DNA.

Of course, having a famous last name helps. Let's be real. But the fashion industry is brutal, and "nepo baby" status only gets you through the door—it doesn't make you walk the walk.

We have to talk about the elephant in the room: their father. While most 18 and 19-year-olds are worrying about prom or dorm decor, Jessie and D’Lila spent much of 2025 attending federal court hearings. Their father is currently serving a sentence in prison following one of the most publicized trials in hip-hop history.

It’s a heavy burden for anyone, let alone teenagers. Yet, they’ve stayed remarkably loyal. They frequently post about him, calling him the "best dad" and standing by him even as public opinion turned. Some people criticize them for it; others see it as a testament to their family bond.

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Since their mother passed away in 2018 from pneumonia, the twins have been under the care of Lala, a close friend of Kim Porter. While Lala isn't their legal guardian, she’s been the "surrogate mother" figure keeping their lives as normal as possible. Kimora Lee Simmons has also stepped in as a mentor, giving them the "ins and outs" of the modeling world.

What’s Next for the Combs Twins?

They want to be the "Black Hilton sisters." That’s the word on the street, anyway. They are hitting every party, every red carpet, and every influencer event in Los Angeles. They aren't hiding from the drama; they’re trying to outshine it.

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Success for them looks like 12TWINTY1 becoming a legitimate fashion powerhouse. They want to be business owners, not just faces. It’s a tall order given the chaos surrounding their family legacy, but if their recent runway appearances are any indication, they have the work ethic to back up the ambition.

Actionable Insights for Following Their Journey:

  1. Watch the Brand: Keep an eye on their 12TWINTY1 drops. This will be the true test of whether they can convert social media followers into a sustainable business.
  2. Runway Evolution: Look for them at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks. They’ve moved past "celebrity kids" cameos and are aiming for high-fashion longevity.
  3. The Porter Legacy: Their tributes to Kim Porter often reveal more about their personal growth than any interview. Following their social media gives a direct look at how they are navigating grief alongside fame.

The twins are clearly done being "background characters" in the Combs family story. They are writing their own script now, and whether you agree with their choices or not, they’re doing it with a level of poise that’s honestly pretty impressive.