In a move that shook the fashion world on June 26, 2025, Anna Wintour announced she is stepping away from the day-to-day role of editor‑in‑chief at American Vogue after nearly four decades. However, far from exiting the scene, Wintour will retain her position as Condé Nast’s Global Chief Content Officer and Global Editorial Director of Vogue, ensuring her continued influence across all Vogue editions and its parent company’s prominent titles. Wintour, who assumed leadership of Vogue US in 1988, confirmed the transition in a staff meeting, stating her readiness to empower the next generation of editorial voices. Under her direction, the magazine revolutionized the industry—popularizing celebrity covers, championing emerging designers like Marc Jacobs and Alexander McQueen, and expanding Vogue’s global reach.
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Anna Wintour Steps Back as Vogue Editor-in-Chief
As Vogue redefines its American leadership structure, a new Head of Editorial Content will be appointed to oversee daily operations and report directly to Wintour. This role replaces the traditional editor-in-chief title and reflects Condé Nast’s international strategy to distribute editorial responsibilities across local teams, with Wintour maintaining strategic oversight. Keeping her editorial vision intact, Wintour will continue to oversee marquee events like the Met Gala and Vogue World, while influencing all Condé Nast publications—from Vanity Fair to Wired, GQ, Bon Appétit, and more. She emphasized her passion for nurturing emerging talent, sharing: “How thrilling it will be… to work alongside someone new who will challenge us, inspire us, and make us all think about Vogue in a myriad of original ways,”. The transition comes on the heels of several internal shifts, including Wintour’s recent appointment of Mark Guiducci as Global Editorial Director of Vanity Fair. This decision reportedly stirred controversy due to Wintour’s decisive leadership style. Despite any friction, her promotion of Guiducci highlights Wintour’s ongoing role in shaping Condé Nast’s editorial vision.
Beyond her corporate duties, Wintour has deepened her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fashion industry. In 2025, she was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom and recognized by the Gordon Parks Foundation for her efforts in elevating underrepresented voices—efforts that include mentoring programs and greater representation at events like the Met Gala. For over 35 years, Wintour has reigned as perhaps the most powerful influencer in fashion publishing. Her iconic bob, signature sunglasses, and development of red‑carpet moments—best captured in the documentary The September Issue—solidified her legacy. As she steps back from operational duties, Wintour’s strategic presence will remain indelibly etched into the fabric of Condé Nast and global fashion.
Looking ahead, Vogue US faces a pivotal moment addressing digital transformation, Gen Z engagement, and social and sustainability trends. With Wintour guiding the transition, a fresh editorial head will shape the magazine’s voice, but its course will continue to be charted by her experienced, visionary hand. Anna Wintour’s evolution from Vogue editor-in-chief to global content overlord is not a retirement—it’s a reshaping of power. As a new leader rises at Vogue US, Wintour’s legacy—and her influence—remain unwavering at the heart of fashion and publishing.
