Anna Wintour's 37-year tenure as editor-in-chief of American Vogue has left a lasting legacy - over 400 covers that have sparked controversy and conversation. The latest issue, featuring Timothée Chalamet on its cover, has already ruffled some feathers online.
The image, shot by Annie Leibovitz and styled with a Celine white polo neck, long cream coat, and embroidered jeans, has been met with criticism from some quarters. Comments on Vogue's Instagram have included "I'm just horrified" and "when you ask ChatGPT to do your cover", with some users expressing disappointment that the magazine seems to be playing it safe.
However, others are taking a more nuanced view. Magazine store founder Jeremy Leslie notes that Chalamet is part of a long line of Vogue covers that have pushed boundaries and explored themes of identity and aspiration. From Madonna in 1989 to Kanye West and Kim Kardashian in 2014, Wintour's magazine has never shied away from controversy.
Leslie argues that this latest cover is a statement - one that signals the end of an era for Wintour as editor-in-chief, but also sets the tone for what Chloe Malle will bring to Vogue in her new role. As head of editorial content, Malle faces the challenge of defining wealth and aspiration in a rapidly changing world.
For some, this will mean embracing a new era of "nepo babies" and social media-famous personalities. But for others, it may also mean moving away from the likes of Wintour-style talking point covers that have become a hallmark of the magazine's past.
With Vogue World set to take center stage in 2026, with its focus on craftsmanship and creativity, some wonder if Malle will be able to strike a similar balance between controversy and relevance. One thing is certain - Anna Wintour has left an indelible mark on American fashion, and her legacy will continue to shape the magazine for years to come.
The image, shot by Annie Leibovitz and styled with a Celine white polo neck, long cream coat, and embroidered jeans, has been met with criticism from some quarters. Comments on Vogue's Instagram have included "I'm just horrified" and "when you ask ChatGPT to do your cover", with some users expressing disappointment that the magazine seems to be playing it safe.
However, others are taking a more nuanced view. Magazine store founder Jeremy Leslie notes that Chalamet is part of a long line of Vogue covers that have pushed boundaries and explored themes of identity and aspiration. From Madonna in 1989 to Kanye West and Kim Kardashian in 2014, Wintour's magazine has never shied away from controversy.
Leslie argues that this latest cover is a statement - one that signals the end of an era for Wintour as editor-in-chief, but also sets the tone for what Chloe Malle will bring to Vogue in her new role. As head of editorial content, Malle faces the challenge of defining wealth and aspiration in a rapidly changing world.
For some, this will mean embracing a new era of "nepo babies" and social media-famous personalities. But for others, it may also mean moving away from the likes of Wintour-style talking point covers that have become a hallmark of the magazine's past.
With Vogue World set to take center stage in 2026, with its focus on craftsmanship and creativity, some wonder if Malle will be able to strike a similar balance between controversy and relevance. One thing is certain - Anna Wintour has left an indelible mark on American fashion, and her legacy will continue to shape the magazine for years to come.