The world of fashion is no stranger to change, but it seems that British Vogue is bidding adieu to an era of transformation as Edward Enninful, the esteemed editor-in-chief, takes his leave after seven remarkable years. In a fitting tribute to his tenure, Enninful chose not one, but 40 influential women to grace the cover of his final issue, spanning across generations, industries, and cultural fabric. Gone are the days of solitary cover stars; now, it’s about celebrating the power and unity of a collective voice.
Enninful’s final cover truly reads like a who’s who in the world of fashion, entertainment, and activism. The collective beauty and talent of this diverse group is a testament to Enninful’s unwavering dedication to inclusivity and representation. Supermodels Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, and Christy Turlington are joined by pop sensations Dua Lipa and Miley Cyrus. Mother-daughter duos Kate and Lila Moss and Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber add a touch of familial grace. And this is just the tip of the iceberg; the list goes on to include Jane Fonda, Oprah Winfrey, Salma Hayek, Selma Blair, Victoria Beckham, Ariana DeBose, Anya Taylor-Joy, Laverne Cox, and Serena Williams, among others.
To bring this grand vision to life, Enninful enlisted the genius of renowned photographer Steven Meisel. The resulting cover is a visual spectacle that reflects the unique essence of each individual, while also capturing the collective spirit of unity and camaraderie. The masterstroke of makeup artist Pat McGrath adds the final touch of artistry, enhancing the natural beauty of each woman and working wonders to highlight their distinct personalities.
Enninful’s legacy at British Vogue extends far beyond his departure. Throughout his tenure, he shattered glass ceilings and opened doors for underrepresented voices. As the first black and gay editor-in-chief of British Vogue, Enninful made it his mission to redefine beauty standards, challenge social norms, and pave the way for a more inclusive fashion industry. His covers became cultural milestones, featuring trailblazers such as Meghan Markle, who served as guest editor in 2019, and Selma Blair, gracefully posing with her cane amidst her battle with multiple sclerosis. Enninful also captured the tender moments of Naomi Campbell with her baby daughter, providing a touching portrayal of motherhood and defying societal expectations.
As Enninful bids farewell to his role as editor-in-chief, he paves the way for a new chapter in his career as an editorial advisor for British Vogue and a global creative and cultural adviser for Vogue. As an integral part of the Condé Nast family, Enninful’s expertise and creative vision will continue to leave an indelible mark on the fashion world, transcending borders and impacting international versions of Vogue.
In his parting words, Enninful reflected on the enduring influence of women in shaping British Vogue, as well as guiding him personally throughout his remarkable journey. The cover of his final issue embodies the spirit of togetherness, community, and teamwork. As the fashion industry embraces the unknown of a new decade, one thing is for certain: the excitement of what lies ahead is palpable. Enninful’s unyielding dedication to diversity and bold creativity has set the stage for a future where fashion truly knows no boundaries.
With Edward Enninful’s departure, a chapter in the history of British Vogue comes to a close. His fearless approach to challenging conventions and pushing boundaries has left an indelible mark on the publication and the fashion industry at large. As we bid farewell to this visionary editor-in-chief, we eagerly anticipate the evolution and continued impact of British Vogue under new leadership. Enninful’s legacy will forever stand as a testament to the transformative power of diversity, unity, and creative expression, inspiring generations of fashion enthusiasts and visionaries to embrace their unique voices and redefine the status quo.
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