Karrueche Tran was once a name only associated with rapper Chris Brown. In fact, no one knew who she was besides a “model wannabe” and Chris Brown’s on-again, off-again girlfriend.

Street Style Ft. @Karrueche // #Runway96 pic.twitter.com/Fe3Aqx6UzW

— Runway96 (@Runway96Fashion) March 10, 2016

Some people called her a “cling-on,” accusing her of riding Breezy’s coattails to a life of fame.

These days Karrueche Tran is a successful woman in the fashion industry and a solo celebrity, too. She attends red carpet events solo–with no sign of Chris Brown whatsoever.

.@Karrueche took our breath away at the Elton John Oscars party in this vintage gown: https://t.co/0v4EaCM3HL pic.twitter.com/GaXxtlYrbK

— Hello Beautiful (@HelloBeautiful) March 5, 2016

When Karrueche Tran learned Chris Brown cheated on her with model Nia Guzman, and fathered her child, she dumped him for good. Many expected the two would soon reconcile, but that simply wasn’t to be. Now–nearly a year after their split–Karrueche Tran is making her own headlines.

Who needs Chris Brown?

Woah! That's not @maxjoseph. Join us next THURSDAY at 9/8c for @karrueche co-hosting #Catfish! pic.twitter.com/lPuB15qB43

— Catfish (@CatfishMTV) March 10, 2016

Maybe Chris Brown was a stepping stone for Karrueche Tran. He might have opened some doors she couldn’t lift on her own, but she has clearly succeeded on her own laurels.

Were you among those who expected Karrueche Tran to fail once she dumped Chris Brown? Or did you have faith in her abilities from the start–even when she was involved in a love triangle with Chris and Rihanna?