After nearly four decades at the helm of one of fashion’s most iconic magazines, Anna Wintour has officially stepped down as the editor-in-chief of American Vogue. The announcement, made on June 25, 2025, sent waves through the fashion and media world, marking the end of an era that saw Wintour become not just a publishing powerhouse but a cultural icon. However, this is not a full goodbye—Wintour will remain actively involved with Condé Nast as its global chief content officer and global editorial director for Vogue, extending her influence far beyond the pages of a single magazine.
Anna Wintour’s Exit from Vogue Signals a New Chapter in Fashion Media
The news that Anna Wintour would step away from her editorial leadership at Vogue comes as a shock to many, but insiders say the move has been in discussion for months. Her departure as editor-in-chief closes a transformative 37-year chapter during which she turned Vogue into a global fashion bible and launched countless careers in the fashion industry.
While stepping back from her editorial role, she remains far from retired. Her focus now shifts to a broader strategic vision for Vogue and Condé Nast globally. Many speculate this move allows Wintour to mentor rising talent while shaping the future of digital and international fashion content.
Wintour’s Legacy: Reinventing Vogue and Redefining Influence
When Anna Wintour took the reins of American Vogue in 1988, she wasted no time in rewriting the magazine’s rulebook. Her debut cover, which controversially paired a $50 pair of jeans with a couture jacket, made headlines for disrupting fashion elitism. That moment set the tone for a tenure defined by bold editorial choices and cultural relevance.
Career-defining contributions include:
- Pioneering celebrity covers that made Vogue more accessible.
- Turning the annual September issue into a fashion spectacle.
- Elevating the Met Gala into a global pop culture event.
- Launching the careers of designers like John Galliano and Alexander McQueen.
Her editorial style—sharp, intuitive, and often intimidating—set standards that defined the industry for generations.
Anna Wintour’s Continued Impact at the 2025 Met Gala
Just weeks before the announcement, Anna Wintour commanded attention as she co-chaired the 2025 Met Gala, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” The event was a celebration of Black designers and style visionaries, highlighting how Wintour continues to use her platform to elevate diverse voices.
Though no longer handling every minute detail of the gala, Wintour still had her signature touch on everything from guest selection to theme development. Attendees, including Colman Domingo, Pharrell Williams, and A$AP Rocky, reportedly consulted with her directly for their red carpet looks. Wintour’s presence reaffirmed her continued sway over fashion’s most glamorous evening—even as she transitions out of her role at Vogue.
Internal Shake-Ups: Vanity Fair and Wintour’s Ongoing Influence
Since shifting to a broader role at Condé Nast, Wintour hasn’t shied away from making controversial moves. Most recently, she appointed a new global editorial director for Vanity Fair, reportedly catching some top executives off guard. The appointment sparked conversations about favoritism and Wintour’s far-reaching authority within the organization.
However, those who’ve worked closely with her say that such decisive actions are typical of her leadership style. She’s long believed in trusting her editorial instincts over corporate red tape. As Condé Nast continues to redefine its brand strategy, Wintour’s eye for talent and trend-spotting ensures she remains a central decision-maker.
- Anna Wintour steps down as Vogue editor-in-chief after 37 years.
- She retains key leadership roles at Condé Nast with global content oversight.
- Her influence continues through events like the 2025 Met Gala.
- Wintour’s legacy includes reshaping celebrity fashion coverage and media standards.
- She remains a powerful voice in fashion, culture, and media strategy.
A Personal Touch: Anna Wintour Honors Colman Domingo
Wintour recently took center stage at the Native Son Awards, where she surprised actor Colman Domingo by presenting him with an award honoring Black queer men. Her heartfelt speech praised Domingo’s humility, authenticity, and groundbreaking contributions to art and culture. It was another reminder that while her magazine tenure may be ending, her commitment to spotlighting underrepresented voices is stronger than ever.
The emotional moment drew praise across the industry, as Wintour—often perceived as icy and stoic—shared a rare, vulnerable side. The gesture reinforced her role as a bridge between fashion, art, and social movements.
What Comes Next for Anna Wintour and Vogue
The transition now raises a big question: who will succeed Anna Wintour at Vogue? While names are being floated internally, none have been confirmed. Whoever takes the mantle will face towering expectations and an audience accustomed to Wintour’s precise, polished editorial voice.
Meanwhile, Wintour’s global roles at Condé Nast suggest her hand will still be visible across fashion’s biggest platforms. Industry watchers expect her to focus more on global expansion, nurturing new editorial voices, and guiding brand identity across both print and digital platforms.
Her next chapter may be less front-facing, but her presence is unlikely to fade.
The Final Word: Anna Wintour’s Influence is Far From Over
While it’s the end of her iconic run as Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour remains an indelible force in the fashion world. From influencing what we wear to determining who gets a seat at the table, Wintour has spent decades shaping culture in subtle yet undeniable ways.
As the industry speculates on her successor, one thing remains clear: Anna Wintour’s imprint on media and fashion will endure long after her name fades from the masthead. Whether behind the scenes at Condé Nast or front row at Fashion Week, Wintour is far from finished.
Stay tuned as this fashion legend continues to redefine influence on a global stage. If you’re inspired by her legacy or intrigued by what’s next, follow the journey and share your thoughts.