Dame Anna Wintour, the longstanding editor-in-chief of American Vogue, has announced she will step back from her role after an impressive 37-year tenure. The British-born fashion icon, now 75, has held the position longer than any other editor in the publication's history. However, she will continue to serve as Vogue's global editorial director, along with being chief content officer for her parent company, Conde Nast.
Wintour, who was honored as a dame by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017 for her contributions to fashion and journalism, recently received the Companion of Honour award from King Charles. In a meeting with staff, Wintour shared that a new position entitled head of editorial content will be established to encourage the next generation of editors, stating her desire to inspire new ideas in the field. She reassured staff that she would maintain many of her responsibilities and humorously noted, “I plan to remain Vogue's tennis and theatre editor in perpetuity.”
Originally from London, Wintour was previously the editor of British Vogue before taking charge of the US edition in 1988. Her leadership revitalized the American publication, elevating it to one of the world's premier fashion magazines through a mix of fresh faces in modeling and a blend of high-end couture with accessible fashion.
Throughout her illustrious career, Wintour has become a defining figure in global fashion. Not only has she transformed Vogue, but she also curates the prestigious Met Gala, a renowned fundraiser in New York that draws numerous celebrities, since 1995. Widely recognized by her distinct bob hairstyle and dark sunglasses—which she once referred to as a 'prop'—Wintour's influence extends beyond traditional publishing.
Interestingly, her reign is said to have inspired the character of Miranda Priestly in "The Devil Wears Prada," crafted by her former assistant, Lauren Weisberger. Earlier this year, when asked by King Charles if she would consider retirement, Wintour responded decisively with a "firm no," signaling her enduring commitment to the fashion industry.
