London is gearing up for a fashion and entertainment spectacle that rivals the famed Met Gala. On Thursday night, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in the West End will be inundated with some of the biggest names in fashion and Hollywood for Vogue World, a one-of-a-kind event conceptualized by Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. This spectacular celebration of the performing arts aims to raise crucial funds for London’s struggling arts scene.
The hour-long extravaganza will feature a captivating catwalk show and live performances directed by Stephen Daldry, renowned for his work on Billy Elliot. The star-studded lineup includes icons such as Kate Moss, Stormzy, Idris Elba, and Michaela Coel.
But this event is not just another glamorous fundraiser. Behind the scenes, there are whispers of a power struggle between Wintour and the outgoing British Vogue editor-in-chief, Edward Enninful. For Wintour, this event is an opportunity to assert her dominance in the fashion world.
Although publicly presented as a joint effort, insiders reveal that Vogue World is truly “Wintour’s baby.” One former employee, choosing to remain anonymous, describes it as Wintour’s way of proving her critics wrong and solidifying her power.
Wintour, who took the helm at Vogue in 1988, has consistently expanded her influence beyond the boundaries of the $1.7tn fashion industry. Her extensive network now extends into entertainment, sports, and politics. She has hosted fundraisers for Democratic figures like Obama, acted as a confidante and advisor to tennis superstar Serena Williams, and even had the renowned Costume Institute at New York’s Metropolitan Museum renamed in her honor.
Vogue World presents an opportunity for Wintour to flaunt her vast connections and influential circle. Notably, top designer Michael Kors shifted his New York fashion week show to accommodate Wintour’s own “runway extravaganza,” ensuring the presence of models like Irina Shayk and Ashley Graham. Promotional materials for the event feature a star-studded lineup, including London Mayor Sadiq Khan, designer Victoria Beckham, members of the Rambert Dance Company, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and Sir Ian McKellen.
Since Enninful succeeded Alexandra Shulman as British Vogue’s editor-in-chief in 2017, he has been seen as Wintour’s potential successor, posing the only real threat to her power within Condé Nast, the parent company of Vogue. However, a rift reportedly emerged between the two over Enninful’s attempts to reshape the 130-year-old publication, including a push for genderless content.
Earlier this year, Enninful surprised many by announcing his departure from the editor-in-chief role and accepting a new global position at Condé Nast, granting him the freedom to explore broader creative projects. Initially seen as a strategic move to bolster his chances of replacing Wintour, the narrative surrounding Enninful’s departure has evolved. Many now view it as a way for Wintour to “fire him upwards.”
In December 2020, Wintour was appointed Condé Nast’s worldwide chief content officer, responsible for overseeing all content within the company (excluding The New Yorker) and setting the global editorial strategy for Vogue. Shulman, Enninful’s predecessor, affirms that despite his international influence, Enninful always played second fiddle to Wintour.
Enninful’s soon-to-be-filled position will no longer carry the editor-in-chief title but will instead be designated as head of editorial content. Chioma Nnadi, a London-born executive currently leading the digital arm of American Vogue, is considered the front-runner for the role. Wintour promoted her to this position in 2020, indicating her favor and trust.
Amy Odell, author of a biography on Wintour titled “Anna,” comments on the situation, stating that insiders expected Wintour to step aside by 2023. However, she has proven her enduring power and continues to solidify her position. Roger Lynch, the CEO of Condé Nast, allegedly feels more comfortable with Wintour leading Vogue due to Enninful’s perceived niche vision for a global brand.
Enninful, who made history as the first male and black editor-in-chief of British Vogue, earned praise for pushing boundaries during his tenure, featuring noteworthy cover stars like transgender actor Laverne Cox and a diverse cast of disabled talent. As he approaches his departure, some view Vogue World as Wintour’s final publicity coup.
Insiders reveal heightened tensions within Vogue House. Instead of relinquishing power, Wintour’s grip on the British brand is tightening. Her American team closely collaborates with the London-based team, engaging in around-the-clock Zoom calls.
Anna Wintour possesses an extraordinary ability to emerge victorious. She has skillfully paved the way for her position atop the fashion pyramid over the course of her illustrious career, ensuring that her Vogue remains the heartbeat of it all.
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