A closer look reveals intricate embroidery inspired by Bosch’s 15th and 16th century oil paintings. You could say the dress, then, doubles as art. This approach to the red carpet is one we will likely continue to see Fanning for the rest of awards season. And even more likely is another McQueen gown to do so. “There is always that duality in Sarah Burton’s designs that resonates with us both,” teases McMillen. When longtime Vogue editor André Leon Talley died last year at 73, there was an acute sense of loss in the fashion community. His contributions would be missed, but perhaps even more so, his presence. The larger than life figure approached his existence as a splendid art project even choosing to play tennis in abundant Louis Vuitton, as seen in The September Issue. Fashion insiders and casual observers alike recognized the tall, imposing man dressed in theatrical caftans perched at the top of the Met Gala stairs as an interviewer often the only person the night’s A list guests granted a chat to.
Soon anyone could own a piece of the editor’s legacy. Beginning January 27, a new series of live and online auctions, presented by Christie’s, will sell treasured items owned by Talley. The catalog poignantly captures the remarkable ascent and journey of a Black man who was born in Jim Crow–era Durham, North Carolina; attended the prestigious Brown University to study French; worked with Andy Warhol; spent years living in Paris; and became the first Black creative director at American Vogue. A significant portion of the items was retrieved from Talley’s home in White Plains, New York, and include one of one designs by Tom Ford and Diane von Furstenberg, photographs taken by the late Karl Lagerfeld, Louis Vuitton trunks (including one featured in ALT’s cameo in the Sex and the City film), books, a Chanel tennis racket, a bevy of Prada crocodile coats, vintage books, and so, so much more.
Comments