Dame Anna Wintour, one of fashion’s most powerful figures, has announced she is stepping down as editor-in-chief of American Vogue after an iconic 37-year run. Though leaving the position she’s held the longest of any Vogue editor, the 75-year-old British-born powerhouse will retain her senior roles at Conde Nast as Vogue’s global editorial director and chief content officer.
“It’s Time for the Next Generation,” Says Anna Vintour
Anna Wintour shared the news with staff on Thursday and revealed that US Vogue would create a new role—head of editorial content.
According to a company statement, Dame Anna explained that she’s ready to help “the next generation of impassioned editors storm the field with their own ideas.” Despite the shift, she made it clear she’s not stepping away entirely: “It goes without saying that I plan to remain Vogue’s tennis and theatre editor in perpetuity.”
Dame Anna, who was born and raised in London, first edited British Vogue before moving to lead its American counterpart in 1988. Her leadership redefined the magazine—she blended high fashion with everyday wear, promoted lesser-known models, and made Vogue more inclusive and trend-setting. Her efforts earned her widespread acclaim, making Vogue one of the most influential fashion publications globally.
Anna’s Achievements
Queen Elizabeth II made Anna Wintour a Dame in 2017, and King Charles awarded her the Companion of Honour title earlier this year in recognition of her contributions to fashion and journalism.
Known for her bob haircut and ever-present dark sunglasses—once described as a “prop” that “help me see and help me not see”—Wintour has also famously chaired the Met Gala since 1995.
Lauren Weisberger, Anna Wintour’s former assistant, reportedly based the fictional character Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada on Wintour’s long-standing reputation for high standards and no-nonsense leadership.
Earlier this year, King Charles asked if she would ever stop working. She replied, “firmly no.”
