The new icons | La Roitfeld and Queen Agy

Two articles this week gave an inside look into two of the women who are changing the face of fashion. And unlike the mysterious, impenetrable images that helped to create previous fashion icons, these women seem to be comfortable just being themselves, even if it is politically incorrect. Is authenticity the new must-have?

The Anti-Anna (New York Magazine)
In an unabashedly honest look into one one most important women in fashion, the editor of Paris Vogue, Carine Roitfeld makes no apologies for who she is. Comparison to Anna Wintour aside, we were most intrigued by Ms. Roitfeld's comments on the fashion business, saying

"Right now, I think that fashion in the world becomes a bit boring. There is so much money, and I feel a bit when you go to shows they want to sell so many handbags, and for me, well, I do not like handbags. I do not wear handbags. It is not a nice look, to carry a handbag...I’m not a business girl. I will never be a business girl."

The Platinum Queen, Agyness Deyn (International Herald Tribune)
You know the star of Agyness Deyn is on the ascendant when the IHT calls her the new Kate Moss. She is also on the cover of the latest Time Style and Design supplement. This is the highest of praise in an industry which has not been able to move on from Moss, even after the scandals that have plagued her in the past.

So how does Deyn deal with all the newfound attention? In a heartwarmingly down-to-earth way, exceedingly authentic and very funny. How many models do you know that worked in a fish and chips shop and admit it openly?

Photo courtesy of the IHT and blogographic.com

© 2008 Copyright Imran Amed - The Business of Fashion

Comments

[CarryingContraption.com]

"I’m not a business girl. I will never be a business girl"

Never say never.

[artefact212]

In todays publishing world you need to have an understanding of both business and fashion. This is why Anna Wintour has proven to be at the top of her game. She certainly knows how to play with the big boys.

Roitfeld does a disservice to those brands that advertise their handbags in French Vogue. They pay her salary. Remember, she is just an employee and can be replaced very easily. Shut up, Roitfeld and learn from Wintour.