Marc Jacobs Becomes First Guest Editor for American Vogue
Vogue shocked its readers by announcing Anna Wintour would be giving up her editor position—for one issue. In its 131-year history, the December issue introduced the American publication’s first-ever guest editor, designer Marc Jacobs.
Jacobs was given the invitation to edit the holiday issue by Wintour herself. The long-time editor-in-chief handed the designer a large envelope over dinner which contained mock-ups of what the issue could look like with Jacobs as editor. Jacobs said in his Editor’s Letter that he “imagined the process would be like putting together a collection.”
Jacobs’ vision for the issue’s theme was, “Dance! Fashion! Beauty!” as well as confidence, youthfulness, passion, and energy. He placed importance on creativity, freedom, and joy. Having such an over-the-top and celebratory theme released right after the presidential election was no coincidence as the designer wanted the content of the magazine to remind readers to “make, move, and find joy in everything we do,” no matter the outcome of the election.
‘Role Play’
Jacobs’ vision for the issue’s cover story gives new meaning to role play. Dressed solely in Jacobs’ Fall 2024 collection, Kaia Gerber nods to Minnie Mouse, Marilyn Monroe, and Disney Princesses. The silhouettes are expertly exaggerated and cartoonish featuring bright and playful colors.
In the article, Gerber shares her entry into the acting world, starring in the 2023 comedy “Bottoms”, and her experience on the recently released “Saturday Night” as Jacqueline Carlin. Gerber also speaks about her personal book club, Library Science, which she started in 2020.
Jacobs began his cover with supermodel and actress Kaia Gerber in mind (although, he originally thought of having Wintour on the cover, which she immediately refused). The cover, shot by legendary photographer Steven Meisel, features Gerber adorned in none other than Marc Jacobs.
With a comically large ‘60s updo and a pink and blue gown with big white gloves, Gerber makes the simple yet colorful cover a breath of fresh air for the publication. An alternate cover for the issue features a portrait of the model painted by Anna Weyant.
‘Impossible Beauty’
Shot by Carlijn Jacobs and styled by Alastair McKimm, the “Impossible Beauty” segment features top models Alex Consani and Anok Yai. Close-ups of large, feathery lashes, long, see-through nails, and drool-worthy rings from Tiffany & Co. and Swarovski against a plain white background grace the pages of this monumental issue.
In one striking photo, Consani is pictured wearing layers of wispy lashes, bleached eyebrows, and bright pink blush with a mascara wand dangerously close to her eye.
‘Gotta Dance’
In the spirit of movement, Jacobs filled the pages with a “gotta dance” vibe.
“We gathered a wild array of dancers and models…Then we asked them only to move to the music, go with the flow—and simply dance like the whole world is watching,” Jacobs said about the editorial.
Adorned in feathers, ruffles, and tulle pieces from designers like Victoria Beckham, Schiaparelli, Loewe, and of course, Marc Jacobs, the dancers do not disappoint. Photographed by Inez and Vinoodh and styled by Alastair McKimm, the spread features models and dancers on the streets of New York, in studio, and on a set inspired by raves and underground parties - channeling the iconic NYC Club Kids of the ‘80s and ‘90s.
‘In The Heights’
While most of the images are portrayed in black and white, colored pictures are sprinkled throughout. The bright '60s-inspired colors of short dresses, tights, and pumps contrast the dark grey background that is consistent throughout the editorial. Shot by Luis Alberto Rodriguez, “In the Heights” carries on the theme of movement and dance by featuring dancers as well as sky-high stilettos that brilliantly mimic the silhouette of pointe shoes.
Allowing Marc Jacobs to guest edit the December issue is not a sign of Anna Wintour’s reign at Vogue coming to an end, however. Wintour told The New York Times, “I love my job… and hope to be able to do it for a long time to come,”
In recent years, American Vogue has drawn complaints from audiences that it felt ‘lackluster’ and ‘stuck’ in comparison to its worldwide counterparts. Bringing in Marc Jacobs to be the first-ever guest editor for the publication shows Vogue’s willingness to evolve, and readers hope to see more experimentation in the future.