Edward Enninful will take Alexandra Shulman's place as the first ever male editor of British Vogue, it has been announced. Jonathan Newhouse, Conde Nast International chairman and chief executive, confirmed the news on Monday, stating that Edward is "supremely prepared to assume the responsibility". The successor has previously worked for both Italian and American Vogue, and will start his new role on 1 August.
Currently the fashion and creative director at W magazine, the 45-year-old has been described by Jonathan as "an influential figure in the communities of fashion, Hollywood and music which shape the cultural zeitgeist". Edward moved to the UK from Ghana and entered the world of fashion at the age of 16 when he was scouted as a model in London. He was awarded the prestigious Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator back in 2014, while in 2016 he was appointed an OBE for his services and commitment to the fashion industry.
Edward Enninful will start his role in August
The model-turned-editor is also close friends with Naomi Campbell and Pharrell Williams, and on his Twitter account he can be seen posing with Michelle Obama. It will be all change for the iconic fashion bible. British Vogue has had Alexandra Shulman at the helm since 1992 - she confirmed her decision to step down in January this year after 25 years of service. At the time, Nicholas Coleridge, managing director of Conde Nast Britain said "this is an announcement I hoped never to have to make".
Alexandra Schulman and the Duchess of Cambridge
Speaking of her departure from the fashion bible, Alexandra said: "It has been very hard to find a rational reason to leave what is unquestionably a fascinating and rewarding role but last autumn I realised that I very much wanted to experience a different life and look forward to a future separate to Vogue."