Black Women Editors On How To Make It In The Media World
There's Andre Leon Talley of Vogue and Elaine Welteroth, formerly of Teen Vogue; Edward Enninful of British Vogue and Lindsay Peoples Wagner, the newest EIC at Teen Vogue. When it comes to certain industries, it seems like we hear about the same game-changers over and over again - but there has to be more, right?
Seeing black people represented in fashion can be difficult to say the least, especially in the powerful role of editor. Until very recently, the fashion space held little regard for voices of color in writing, for expansions of tones in the office, or for diversity in the pages of glossy magazines. It's not only important to have people of color in these positions, but as a community, it's also integral that we shower them with love and support. It's commonly understood feeling to be the "only one", but these ladies are opening the doors for younger women with every step forward.
Chrissy Rutherford
Senior Digital Fashion Editor and Special Projects Director, Talent & Social at Harper's Bazaar
"I think from the outside, the fashion industry is always going to look glitzy and glamorous. But you have to really be willing to do the work because being an editor is not easy, whether you're an assistant or a senior editor. It's not just about going to parties and getting gifts. I think passion always shines through for those who are sincere about this business and the art of storytelling."
Shiona Turini
Stylist Costume Designer (Insecure), Contributing Editor; former Cosmo Fashion Market Director
"Know your history. Especially in fashion and beauty, where trends are so cyclical and reoccurring. It's not possible to know everything but you are that much more valuable if you know a little about everything or everything about a particular subject. It really shows the depth of care and passion for what you do. Also, maintain relationships everywhere. As industries collide in the digital era, you never know who you'll be working alongside and what you'll be inclined to work on.
"To be in a predominantly white space as an editor, sometimes felt incredibly isolating, but I was also empowered by a history, perspective, and understanding of Black culture that others didn't have. The industry has changed significantly since I first joined. Most of it has been a positive change and we've seen a great increase in diversity. Still, I and many of my black and brown friends find ourselves in challenging positions where race and the harmful portrayal of it in the industry is concerned. It's important to know that your perspective is valid and desired. If you are excited about an idea, concept, product, or business, you can bring them into the light. Don't be afraid to fill the gaps where you see them, and stand your ground and raise your voice when something doesn't sit right with you."
Dana Oliver
Beauty Director at Yahoo Lifestyle
"I always tell aspiring editors that consistently reading good writing is what makes a good editor. Immerse yourself in the works of those you are inspired by, as well as writing from a genre that is totally out of your realm. This helps to not only expand your thinking (brainstorming is a 24/7 process as an editor), but you'll also learn how to articulate your thoughts.
"I also strongly encourage interning or freelancing — even if it's not a paid opportunity. Sometimes you have to be willing to sacrifice not making money to acquire new skills that will truly pay off in the future. So, soak up as much knowledge as you can and challenge yourself by taking on assignments you would normally pass up.
"Working in a predominately white space as a black editor has its pros and cons. Naturally, I've experienced a range of emotions — from being isolated and misunderstood to feeling as though I must speak on behalf of my entire community. But I've managed to use my platform to produce positive results by educating my colleagues on matters and topics they aren't aware of, and even advocating for the recruitment and hiring of more black editors and writers. Our voices do matter, and it's time that we control our narrative."
Featured image by Vanni Bassetti/Getty Images
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Courtney is a contributing writer, based in Puerto Rico by way of Tennessee. Interested in the intersection of fashion and culture, she has an affinity for fashion, empowerment, and really good tacos. Keep up with her on Instagram (@hautecourtxo).
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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Rihanna Talks Shedding Expectations And Finding Balance As A Mother
Since becoming a mother in 2022, Rihanna has defined parenthood by her terms and hopes to pass that sense of autonomy on to her children.
For Vogue China’s April cover story, Rihanna shared her perspective on raising her two sons with A$AP Rocky, and how she hopes to preserve her children’s uniqueness, devoid of societal expectations.
"The most beautiful thing...is that [children] come into the world with their own individuality and sincerity, without any logic or conformity,” she told the publication. “Which usually makes you feel that you must fit into a certain group."
The “Work” artist, known for her trendsetting style and captivating persona, expressed her desire to support children in fully embracing their individuality and encouraging them to be whoever they want to be. "It's really beautiful to see and I want to continue to help them navigate that and make sure that they know they can be whoever they want to be,” she says.
She continues, “They should embrace it completely, because it's beautiful, and it's unique. I love them just that way."
From shattering music charts to shaking up the beauty industry, Rihanna has forged a path that has since created the “dream” life we see today. One that she says has made her parents proud of.
“I’m living my dream,” she continued. “My parents were very proud of that because they just wanted me to be happy and successful. So, I think the key thing is to find some kind of balance. Yes, balance is important. Do this and you get the best of both worlds. You can write your own life the way you want, and it will be beautiful. Sometimes, you just need to let go of everyone’s expectations and start living your own story.”
Rihanna, who shares sons, RZA, 23 months, and Riot, 8 months, with rapper A$AP Rocky, recently shared her vision for expanding her family in the future in Interview Magazine.
When stylist Mel Ottenberg asked about the number of additional children she hoped to have, Rihanna replied, "As many as God wants me to have.”
"I don't know what God wants, but I would go for more than two. I would try for my girl,” she adds. “But of course, if it's another boy, it's another boy."
Featured image by Neil MockfordWireImage