Dame Anna Wintour, a fashion icon and influential figure in the industry, is stepping back as editor-in-chief of American Vogue, a position she has held for an impressive 37 years. The 75-year-old British-born fashion magnate will remain at the helm as global editorial director and assume the role of Chief Content Officer for its parent company, Conde Nast.
In an announcement made to staff on Thursday, Dame Anna revealed her intention to create a new role specifically for the head of editorial content at American Vogue, signaling a shift towards mentoring emerging talent. She expressed her desire to help “the next generation of impassioned editors storm the field with their own ideas,” while also stressing her continued commitment to various responsibilities within the company.
Dame Anna, who was made a dame by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017 for her services to fashion and journalism, has been pivotal in transforming American Vogue into a leading fashion publication. Under her leadership since 1988, the magazine evolved to feature a diverse array of models and successfully blended accessible fashion with high-end couture.
In addition to her important role at Vogue, she has organized the prestigious Met Gala in New York since 1995, attracting various high-profile celebrities. Known for her signature bob haircut and dark sunglasses—which she has described as a “prop” aiding her vision—Dame Anna has become a recognizable figure beyond her editorial work.
The narrative surrounding her tenure also draws parallels with the character Miranda Priestly from “The Devil Wears Prada,” inspired by a novel written by her former assistant Lauren Weisberger. Despite a long and storied career, earlier this year, when asked by King Charles if she would ever step back, she firmly responded, “no.” As she embarks on this new chapter, the fashion world watches closely to see where her legacy will take her next.