And just like that, February flew by like a Kylie Jenner release that nobody could give two f*cks about.
Drips, drops and a drizzling of fashion
Margaret Zhang, Vogue's youngest-ever editor-in-chief, is departing from Vogue China after three years of pioneering work at the publication. Now, she's adding filmmaker to her resume after it was announced that she signed with CAA (Creative Artists Agency). Her innovative artistic direction for the magazine's covers garnered widespread online admiration, turning them into a beloved visual spectacle. However, within the Chinese fashion community, Zhang’s run faced purported tensions and criticisms. Allegedly, she was seen as ‘out of touch’ with the Chinese market, with her tenure marked by controversy, reports Jing Daily. Look at various tweets and the cracks reveal a flurry of negative sentiments surrounding Zhang.
That last tweet? Eesh! Not to mention the screenshot which essentially airs Margaret’s dirty laundry; we found this bit particularly scalding:
On absolutely no one’s 2024 bingo card—Kim Jong Un’s wardrobe.
In the ever-entertaining world of fashion, the fusion with global politics never ceases to amaze. Take Anna Wintour, who is set to hold court at Paris Fashion Week while doubling as a fundraiser host for the Biden-Harris campaign. It’s getting weird. Meanwhile, the unlikely style icon Kim Jong Un’s affinity for quiet luxury has the internet gagging. Who knew North Korea’s supreme leader could be so… fashion-forward? Beyond his controversial governance, including bans on skinny jeans, mullets and basically anything that symbolises capitalism, his fashion choices have sparked the most unserious commentary:
How many peaks can the internet reach? Don’t answer that.
Switching gears, Olivier Rousteing, with his box braided wig intact, exudes regality in a black and white photo captured by Carlijn Jacobs, marking a significant moment in Balmain's journey. Olivier, also the brand’s creative director, emphasises the importance of being at the forefront of one's creations, drawing inspiration—we imagine—from figures like Law Roach.
Anya Taylor-Joy arriving at the Dune: Part Two premiere, lensed by @thehapablonde
Anya Taylor-Joy's smart move to sidestep her Dior contract (almost like a diversion from the Zendaya buzz) is pretty inch-resting. Opting for Maison Margiela Couture by John Galliano, a designer who was once ousted from the very house she represents, what a pity then that the look didn't quite nail it. Some things are just better left on the runway.
Oop! We love it when Cathy has her knickers in a twist. Versace, once a prominent brand of yesteryears, now struggles with an outdated perception of sexiness that fails to evolve. Donatella VERSACE 💜, while iconic in her own right, seems reluctant to steer the family business towards a more contemporary vision. Perhaps it's time to prioritise revitalising the brand's essence over her, um, personal endeavours?
While we’ve still got you, let's delve a little into the Milan shows that were lighting up our phones: Marni slayed in its own lane, giving high art, while Gucci was... well, Gucci: commercial and cute, but not blowing any minds. Now, Prada? Total Blair Waldorf vibes, she's jetting off to Berlin once Manhattan's socialite scene gets old. And Jil Sander? Sublime. Those puffer coats are pure genio!
With the spotlight now shining on Paris Fashion Week, all eyes are on Seán McGirr who’s set to unveil his inaugural Alexander McQueen collection on March 2nd. From the teasers we've spied on Insta, we can’t help but feel like he's taking us on a nostalgic trip back to early-aughts McQueen magic. But who knows? Maybe he's got a surprise up his impeccably tailored sleeve? Whatever’s in store, one thing's for certain: the fashion world awaits with bated breath for the grand reveal of the house’s next act.
Ending on a lighter, more wholesome note, the collaboration between SSENSE and Essence highlights the achievements of Black designers in the fashion industry. Showcasing both emerging and established creatives who are shaping the narrative, the initiative aims to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in fashion. Starting with Bianca Saunders, the series then follows with CSM grads Mowalola Ogunlesi and Stanley Raffington - obsessed would be an understatement.