On January 18th, 2022, America lost fashion Icon Andre Leon Talley, the first Black chief editor of Vogue magazine. Andre who passed at age 73 from a heart attack will be remembered by the fashion world for his global impact within the fashion industry.
André Leon Talley was born on October 16, 1948 and was an American fashion journalist, stylist, creative director, and editor-at-large of Vogue magazine. He was the magazine’s fashion news director from 1983 to 1987, its first African American male creative director from 1988 to 1995, and then its editor-at-large from 1998 to 2013.
Talley was very influential in supporting emerging designers and one of the first people to advocate for diversity within the fashion industry. He often showed up in oversized capes, kaftans and robes which became his staple fashion look.
Talley was also an author and influencer like known other, publications he rendered his talent to includes Women’s wear daily, W, Ebony, and publications such as The New York Times. He made numerous television appearances on popular shows such as the Oprah Winfrey Show. One of his notable fashion gigs include styling President Barack Obama and First lady Michelle during their time in the White House.
The fashion industry will miss Andre Leon Talley for his many contributions, and Black Fashion America will forever remember his legacy of opening doors that did not exist for people of color.
On a personal note,
I’m grateful to have met him at a 2015 runway show, and for his inspiration for my work in Black Fashion Week.
RIP Andre Leon Talley
Signed
Melody B.
