After nearly 40 years at the helm of American Vogue, Anna Wintour has announced her departure as editor-in-chief, seeking to find a successor, as confirmed by Condé Nast to CNN. Wintour communicated her decision to the staff on Thursday, explaining that she would not entirely sever ties with Condé Nast; instead, she plans to reduce her responsibilities while continuing to serve as the publisher’s global chief content officer and Vogue’s global editorial director. A new role, titled head of editorial content, will be created to take her place.
Wintour has been instrumental in transforming Vogue from an unassuming title into a trendsetting powerhouse that boldly influenced fashion and designers. Her iconic first issue in November 1988 featured model Michaela Bercu in stonewashed jeans, a departure from the magazine’s previous sartorial statements and signalling a shift towards more relatable themes.
Throughout her tenure, Wintour has challenged norms, showcasing lesser-known figures and prioritising casual outdoor shots over traditional studio photography. Notably, in 1992, she broke a century-old tradition by featuring a man, Richard Gere, on the cover alongside his then-wife, Cindy Crawford.
In 2020, Wintour expanded her influence beyond Vogue, becoming Condé Nast’s chief content officer, overseeing all its publications, including Vanity Fair, GQ, and Architectural Digest. This latest transition appears to be part of a broader global restructuring rather than a typical retirement, indicating a significant upheaval at American Vogue.
Her departure opens the door for new talent in the editorial realm, creating exciting possibilities for the publication as it navigates this pivotal period. The fashion industry recently witnessed a change in leadership, as Chioma Nnadi became the first Black woman to lead British Vogue, taking over from Edward Enninful, another groundbreaking figure in the magazine’s history. Wintour’s exit signals an opportunity for fresh perspectives as American Vogue moves in a forward direction.