Rafael Pavarotti/Vogue
Vogue enlisted the greatest models of all time to helm its September 2023 issue.
Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Linda Evangelista amazed in elegant black attire for the cover, released on August 11th, Friday. Evangelista, aged 58, looked glamorous in a sparkling coat designed by Michael Kors. Crawford, 57, and Campbell, 53, chose gowns from Bottega Veneta and Prada respectively. Turlington, 54, sported a matching Versace jacket and skirt.
The fashion legends then discussed their experiences in the "supermodel bubble" during their prime. "It was crazy. We weren't the Beatles!" Evangelista jokingly commented, referring to the overwhelming media frenzy caused by their appearance in George Michael's "Freedom! '90" music video and their iconic arm-in-arm walk on the Versace runway in 1991.
The fab four revolutionized the fashion industry in the late '80s. Designer Michael Kors vividly remembers Cindy's first casting in 1986. As a designer who appreciates curves, he was thrilled to see her. At that time, the modeling world was still rigid and models lacked fluidity in their movement. However, Cindy's unique style and grace brought a refreshing change. When she strutted down the runway for Kors, it signaled the beginning of a new era. Traditional runway models took notice and understood that things were about to be different.
Crawford, Campbell, Turlington, and Evangelista, all at the peak of their careers, supported each other wholeheartedly. A strong sisterhood was formed, characterized by care and loyalty. They would uplift each other in times of struggle. Campbell recalls how her fellow models convinced her to walk in her first show for Kors. Despite a last-minute cancellation, their unwavering support gave her the confidence to take the leap.
Rafael Pavarotti/Vogue
The squad is still surviving (and thriving!) in the modeling world, getting a front-row seat to how things have changed over the decades.
"What's currently motivating me is the realization that opportunities are now being presented," Campbell shared, reflecting on her experience closing Valentino's 2019 spring couture show. "As I turned around during the finale, I saw a stunning array of elegantly dressed women... It made me wonder why I was receiving less pay for the same job as my colleagues. Why was I booked for the shows but not for the advertisements? I refused to stay silent."
She continued, expressing gratitude for the privilege of working with incredibly talented creatives who valued her input even when she was young and inexperienced. "I can honestly say that I've never experienced boredom. I consider myself incredibly fortunate."