They say things happen in threes (3s) and if that is the case, those who have put in the work to pave the way for others always die young.
Famed Fashion Journalist Andre Leon Talley Dies at 73
It was announced today via Instagram that Famed Fashion Journalist Andre’ Leon Talley died at the age of 73. The alleged cause of death was a heart attack he suffered as well as a number of other underlying health issues … allegedly in his home. Andre, was known as a champion for Black Designers and Models and was the Editor-at-Large at Vogue Magazine in the 80s.
His death, after a series of health struggles, was confirmed by his friend Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation.
“André Leon Talley was a singular force in an industry that he had to fight to be recognized in,” Mr. Walker said, calling him a “creative genius” and noting his ability to craft a persona for himself out of “a deep academic understanding of fashion and design.”
Timeline at Vogue Magazine
He was the magazine’s fashion news director from 1983 to 1987, its first African-American male creative director from 1988 to 1995, and then its editor-at-large from 1998 to 2013.
He was also known for his larger than life personality, being bold, unfiltered and was never afraid to speak out on issues of racism in the Fashion Industry for which he even faced as a Senior Executive. He fashion items of choice were: Capes, Gloves and Regal Headpiece where he would always utter “ (“My eyes are starving for beauty”)
He helped dress Michelle Obama when she was first lady, was an adviser and a friend to the designer Oscar de la Renta, and became a mentor to the supermodel Naomi Campbell. He cast Ms. Campbell as Scarlett O’Hara in a shoot for Vanity Fair that reimagined “Gone With the Wind” with Black protagonists long before fashion woke up to its own racism.
Andre’ was deemed as a “Titan” in the Industry by his peers and other Industry Professionals.
He impacted my life directly as he gave me hope that a young Jamaican can make it in the Industry by working hard, staying true to yourself and getting to know the Industry inside out. He was also a breath of fresh air on America’s Next Top Model when he served as a judge between 2003-2008.
Let us know if you knew about the works of Andre Leon Talley and if he impacted your life.
#Famed Fashion Journalist Andre Leon Talley Dies at 73
#Famed Fashion Journalist Andre Leon Talley Dies at 73
#Famed Fashion Journalist Andre Leon Talley Dies at 73
#Famed Fashion Journalist Andre Leon Talley Dies at 73
#Famed Fashion Journalist Andre Leon Talley Dies at 73
