Edward Enninful is a fashion industry heavyweight who has made significant contributions to the industry as a creative director and editor-in-chief. He was appointed the first black editor-in-chief of British Vogue in 2017, and held the position for four years before announcing his departure in August 2021.
During his tenure at British Vogue, Enninful brought a fresh perspective to the publication, lauded for its forward-thinking approach to fashion and beauty. He launched several groundbreaking initiatives, including the Vogue Hope initiative in response to the Black Lives Matter movement. The initiative saw the magazine dedicate its September 2020 issue to uplifting black voices by featuring of the African continent’s creative industry.
Enninful’s greatest contribution to fashion has been his advocacy for diversity and inclusivity. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that all fashion brands are held accountable, not just for their designs but also the models they choose to represent them. This effort resulted in a more inclusive and diverse range of models in fashion shows and campaigns.
Enninful also launched several campaigns to highlight rising designers who may have otherwise struggled to gain recognition. Furthermore, he has consistently sought out new talent such as models and photographers from underrepresented communities.
In addition to his work at British Vogue, Enninful has also made a significant impact on the fashion industry in other roles. He previously served as fashion and style director for W Magazine, which saw him oversee groundbreaking editorials and fashion spreads. Enninful has also worked as a contributing editor at Italian Vogue.
Through his various roles in the fashion industry, Enninful has helped to promote a more inclusive and diverse approach to fashion. His tenure at British Vogue paved the way for many others in the industry to embrace a more inclusive approach. As such, his contributions will continue to impact the industry long after he steps down as the chief editor of British Vogue.
Enninful is a true trailblazer in the fashion industry, and his legacy will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. He has helped to shift the conversation around diversity and inclusivity in fashion, challenging traditional norms and inspiring others to do the same. Enninful has also paved the way for a new generation of fashion creatives, proving that one’s race or background should not limit their opportunities in the industry. His contributions have been truly invaluable, and he will no doubt continue to be a force for change in the years ahead.