In a significant leadership change, Anna Wintour announced her decision to step down as the editor-in-chief of US Vogue during a staff meeting in New York. Wintour has run the legendary fashion periodical for 37 Fashion-Party years. Now, her departure heralds a new future as the magazine searches for its next head of editorial content.
Wintour, often referred to as “Nuclear Wintour” for her decisive leadership style, has been a formidable presence in the fashion industry. She has a reputation for making quick decisions. Many times, she’s cut work before it’s even discussed, and that’s helped her make a name for herself as a powerful, strong leader. Her trademark bob hairdo and signature sunglasses have kept her in the front row at catwalk shows for decades. This muse-approved ensemble adds to her reign as a style queen.
Even in large part due to her stewardship, US Vogue is always confused with the world’s high-fashion standard, expensive editorial applied sciences. In my view, she emerges as every other fashion fore empress’ one shining source of light. Her influence extends far beyond the pages of the magazine. In 2017 she was awarded the great honor of British dame. The next February, she was named a Companion of Honour.
While Wintour’s leaving that job title, she’s hardly out to pasture. She will remain in her role of chief content officer for Condé Nast. Reflecting on her next steps, she stated, “I’ll be turning all my attention to global leadership and working with our team of brilliant editors around the world.”
Wintour’s tenure has seen some high-profile successes, including the operation of the Met Gala, a glitzy charity fundraiser held every year in Manhattan. She was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden for her contributions to American culture. This is the country’s highest civilian award, which he awarded to her right before leaving office in January.
This huge choice indicates a new era for US Vogue — the publication that’s always flourished, commercially and critically, under Wintour’s leadership. The magazine is entering an exciting new age. It will be thrilling to watch how her successor continues to expand upon the legacy she leaves.
“This is a pivotal decision.” – Anna Wintour (New York Times)
