Polly Mellen Has Passed Away at 100
The fashion world mourned the loss of legendary Vogue editor Polly Mellen yesterday, who died at the age of 100. Mellen’s creative vision and unparalleled passion helped shape a golden age of fashion storytelling at the famed publication. With a career spanning over five decades at Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Allure, Mellen was the force behind some of the most iconic images in fashion history, collaborating with luminaries like Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, and Helmut Newton. With her boundless energy and fearless approach to pushing boundaries, Mellen’s influence transcended the page, leaving a legacy that defined modern fashion. Polly Mellen was not just an editor; she was a creator, a provocateur, and a relentless advocate for the power of beauty, inspiring generations of designers, models, and photographers with her work ethic as the first to arrive and the last to leave. Fashion has lost one of its brightest lights, but her impact will continue to illuminate for years to come.[Vogue]
Chanel Taps Matthieu Blazy Then Bottega Veneta Taps Louise Trotter
In a dramatic hour of industry shake-ups, fashion’s designer musical chairs took an interesting turn. Louise Trotter announced her departure from Carven and shortly took the reins as Bottega Veneta’s new creative director, while Matthieu Blazy made waves as the newly named artistic director of Chanel, exiting his previous role CD at Bottega. Phew! Blazy, who takes over from Virginie Viard after her five-year tenure, becomes only the fourth official creative director in Chanel’s storied 114-year history. Known for redefining Bottega Veneta’s identity with a focus on exquisite craftsmanship, Blazy now faces the opportunity of steering Chanel into its next chapter. His debut collection in October is already one of the most anticipated moments of the year. Trotter’s move to Bottega Veneta signals a new direction for the brand. She’s expected to bring her refined, understated aesthetic to the house, following a successful stint at Carven, where her debut collection launched during Paris Fashion Week last September. Bottega Veneta CEO Leo Rongone said, “Her aesthetic seamlessly combines exquisite design with sublime craft and her commitment to cultural advocacy aligns beautifully with our brand vision.” Importantly, Trotter joins a small but growing number of female creative directors leading major luxury houses. These leadership changes hint at exciting transformations for both brands. [WWD] [WWD]
John Galliano Exits Margiela
Maison Margiela’s viral Artisanal show in January marked John Galliano’s final collection for the house, as he recently announced his departure after a decade of transformative leadership. Sharing the news in a heartfelt Instagram post, Galliano expressed gratitude for his time at the brand, which he joined in 2014. It was his first major role following his highly publicized exit from Dior in 2011. Under Galliano’s direction, Margiela experienced a creative renaissance. From redefining the house’s cutting-edge ethos to cementing its cultural relevance, Galliano’s tenure elevated the brand to new heights. Pieces like the Tabi shoe, originally introduced in 1988, became a cultural staple under his stewardship. Renzo Rosso, chairman of Maison Margiela’s parent company OTB Group, paid tribute to Galliano’s legacy, stating, “Working with John was one of the most significant and impactful experiences of my life. He mentored me and showed me his vision, enriching me culturally and allowing me to bring some of that vision and culture to the rest of the Group.” As the industry reflects on Galliano’s indelible impact at Margiela, speculation about his next chapter is already mounting. Galliano leaves behind a legacy that has both defined a brand and redefined the possibilities of modern couture. [Vogue Business]
W Magazine China Selects Audrey Hu as its new Fashion Director at Large
W Magazine China has named Audrey Hu as its new Fashion Director at Large. Hu brings a wealth of experience from her roles at some of China’s most influential fashion publications. She has previously worked as Fashion Director at Vogue China, Style Director at Wallpaper China, and, most recently, Fashion Director at Numéro China and Modern Weekly. With over a decade of experience in fashion editorial, creative consulting, and styling, Hu’s fresh perspective will drive creative projects, shaping the publication’s vision and strengthening its reputation as a go-to platform for luxury fashion and culture.
Eckhaus Latta Releases First-Ever Handbag, “The Snap”
Eckhaus Latta unveiled their first-ever handbag, the Snap, on December 10th. Designed as both functional and stylish, the Snap is crafted from lambskin leather and features a blind-embossed logo. Available in four versatile colors — black, brown, green, and red — the bag seamlessly transitions from day to night. The brown version is an exclusive to Eckhaus Latta. Priced at $650 USD, the Snap is available for purchase at eckhauslatta.com, Eckhaus Latta stores, and select retailers.
Vote For Model of The Year
The 2024 Model of the Year nominees have been unveiled! This award goes to the models making an impact with full industry support. After confirming top campaigns, working with fashion legends, and walking for luxury fashion houses, these are the models that dominated this year. Voting ends on December 16th, and you can vote here.
Vittoria Cerciello on the Power of Women in Art and Fashion
For stylist Vittoria Cerciello, fashion isn’t just about clothes, it’s about empowerment, storytelling, and honoring individuality. From her roots in Naples to the global fashion capitals of Milan, Paris, and NYC, Cerciello blends culture, art, and bold creativity into every look. Models.com contributor Shelton Boyd Griffith caught up with the cosmopolitan stylist to dive into her creative journey, the inspirations behind her work, and her thoughts on the future of fashion in a rapidly changing world. Find the interview here.
Set Designer Polly Philp on Creating Immersive Spaces
London and New York-based set designer Polly Philp shares in the next installment of Behind The Image how she found her way into the world of set design. After attending art school, Philp honed her craft, assisting Janina Pedan with early support from Ben Toms. Today, her creative vision brings life to projects for top brands like Miu Miu and Prada and leading publications like Dazed. Discover Philp’s approach to creative collaborations, what she wants people to know about her beyond work, and her pick for who’s next in the industry in the link here.
