EDWARD ENNINFUL
Changing the fashion game as the first black editor of British Vogue, he is our Man of the Year
Spotted on a train in London at the age of 16 by stylist Simon Foxton, Ghana- born Edward Enninful was thrust into the fashion world. By 18, he was the fashion director of the apex of cool, i- D magazine, before becoming contributing editor of Italian and American Vogue ( you can spot him in the 2009 documentary The September Issue, preparing to present a rail of clothes to the monarch of all things fashion, Anna Wintour, being spurred on by the fiery- haired Grace Coddington.)
His subsequent tenure as fashion and style director at W magazine saw him create sublime covers with photographer friends such as Steven Klein and Mert & Marcus, who have reached equally dizzy heights in the fashion industry.
The word “iconic” is often carelessly thrown about, but the magic that
Edward creates is just that. Whether it’s Nicki Minaj dressed as an 18th- century courtesan, Kate Moss as a nun or, more recently, Rihanna swathed in fl owers, his editorials are always memorable.
His latest position, at the helm of British Vogue, continues his incredible success story. He’s already given us unforgettable covers with Oprah and Rihanna, and he’s brought womenswear heavyweights Naomi Campbell, Grace Coddington and Kate Moss on board as contributing editors. Showing the scope of his vision beyond the realm of fashion, he has also invited film director Steve McQueen on to the team.
Since taking over last year, he’s been dedicated to showcasing diversity in the magazine, something he has done throughout his career, whether it be his pioneering All Black issue of Italian Vogue which featured only black models, or the Belle Vere cover shoot, celebrating plus- sized models. Edward has built a reputation for generating excitement, creativity and dynamism, which is just what the fashion world needs. He is the first black editor of British Vogue, as well as the first out gay editor of the publication. With an OBE to his name, his infl uence and scope transcend the world of fashion.
Long may he reign.