British Vogue just named their first male EIC, former W Magazine style director Edward Enninful. He’s succeeding Alexandra Shulman, who stepped down last January, and will start his duties this August.
“Edward is one of the most talented and accomplished fashion editors in the world,” said Jonathan Newhouse, Conde Nast International chairman and chief executive. He also added that Edward is “an influential figure in the communities of fashion, Hollywood and music which shape the cultural zeitgeist.”
Before he assumes his EIC post, let’s get to know Edward a bit more.
At 16, he started out as a model and his first shoot was with photographer Nick Knight for i-D. Edward later became the youngest fashion director of i-D at 18 years old. He held the position for 20 years before becoming the fashion and style director of W Magazine. He was also a contributing editor of Vogue and Vogue Italia.
As a stylist, Edward collaborated with fashion brands like Calvin Klein, Lanvin, Valentino, and Jil Sander.
Edward also championed diversity in the fashion industry. In 2008, he oversaw Vogue Italia’s “Black Issue,” which became a bestseller with 40,000 copies sold that year. He also contributed in Vogue’s “Curvy Issue” and “Makeover Madness.”
Meanwhile, at W Magazine, Edward worked with a pool of diverse A-listers like Cara Delevingne, Emma Watson, Naomi Campbell, Rihanna, Emma Stone, and Jourdan Dunn. His contribution to diversity in fashion didn’t go without notice as he received an OBE for it in 2016.
We’re expecting great things for British Vogue under Edward’s leadership. The Guardian notes that he will bring ” a younger point of view” to the magazine’s shoots and styling, and also expects more diverse cover stars. For that, we’re truly excited for what’s next.
Congratulations, Edward!
Photo courtesy of Essence
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