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Anna Wintour was Vogue. Now she's gone, can the magazine stay relevant?

September 6, 2025

Dame Anna Wintour, after nearly 40 years as editor-in-chief of US Vogue, is transitioning to global editorial director while 39-year-old Chloe Malle takes over as head of editorial content. Throughout her influential tenure, Wintour revolutionized fashion publishing by putting celebrities like Madonna on covers, bridging high fashion with popular culture, and making Vogue more accessible beyond its traditional wealthy audience. As print magazines struggle for relevance in the digital age, Malle reportedly plans to shift from monthly issues to thematic editions designed to be collectible.

Who is affected

  • US Vogue readers and subscribers
  • The fashion industry and its professionals
  • Celebrities and public figures who appear in Vogue
  • Advertisers and commercial partners of the magazine
  • Competing fashion publications
  • Digital media platforms that now compete with traditional fashion magazines
  • Chloe Malle as incoming head of editorial content
  • The Condé Nast publishing company

What action is being taken

  • Dame Anna Wintour is stepping down as editor-in-chief but remaining on as global editorial director
  • Chloe Malle is assuming the role of head of editorial content at US Vogue
  • Malle reportedly plans to publish issues less frequently, centered around themes or cultural events rather than monthly editions
  • Malle intends to position Vogue's print edition as something to "collect and cherish"
  • The magazine is continuing to adapt to an increasingly digital media landscape

Why it matters

  • Vogue has been an influential arbiter of fashion trends and cultural relevance for decades
  • The transition marks a significant change in leadership at one of the world's most prestigious fashion publications
  • The shift in publishing strategy reflects broader challenges in print media amid digital competition
  • Wintour's continued presence raises questions about control and succession planning
  • The magazine's ability to remain culturally relevant is being tested as media consumption habits evolve
  • Vogue's editorial decisions regarding cover subjects have significant cultural and political implications
  • The publication's approach to diversity and representation has faced criticism

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC