Anna Wintour Steps Down as US Vogue Editor After 37 Years, Continues as Global Fashion Powerhouse

Wintour, known for her trademark bob haircut and signature sunglasses, made the announcement during a staff meeting in New York. She called the move a “pivotal decision,” noting that while she is stepping back from day-to-day editorial operations at US Vogue, she is “not moving out of her office” and will focus on global strategy across Condé Nast’s editorial portfolio.

From Editor to Global Leader

Since taking the helm of Vogue in 1988, Wintour transformed the magazine from a conventional fashion title into a cultural authority that dictated trends, launched careers, and blended fashion with celebrity and politics. Her vision established Vogue as a global brand with unmatched prestige in the fashion publishing world.

Under her leadership, the magazine’s covers became symbolic statements of influence, often serving as career milestones for designers, celebrities, and models alike. With her decisive leadership style—earning her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour”—she became a fixture in the front row of every major fashion show and a gatekeeper of style.

A Cultural and Political Force

Beyond the pages of Vogue, Wintour has long been a powerful force in culture and politics. She is the longtime chair of the Met Gala, transforming the Manhattan charity event into the world’s most high-profile fashion night. She is also an avid tennis enthusiast and a key fundraiser for Democratic political figures, including Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

Her image as the ice-cold editor inspired the character Miranda Priestly in the bestselling novel and 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada, portrayed by Meryl Streep in an Oscar-nominated performance. While Wintour remained silent for years on the comparison, she recently commented that it’s “up to the audience and the people I work with” to decide on the similarities.

Honours and Recognition

Wintour’s contributions have been widely recognized. She was named a Dame by the British monarchy in 2017 and was made a Companion of Honour by King Charles III earlier this year. In 2024, just before stepping down from Vogue, she was awarded the US Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden — the country’s highest civilian honour.

Despite stepping down from US Vogue, Wintour will continue to oversee global editions of Vogue as well as other Condé Nast titles, including Vanity Fair, GQ, Wired, Glamour, and Condé Nast Traveler.

The Future of Vogue

With Wintour’s departure, US Vogue will now search for a new editorial head. As print media continues to navigate the digital age, her legacy leaves behind a magazine that redefined the role of fashion journalism and helped bridge the gap between editorial content and cultural relevance.

As the global fashion landscape evolves, Anna Wintour’s impact remains unmatched—her vision, discipline, and authority having shaped generations of fashion professionals and readers alike.