I think it’s safe to say the result is Billie Eilish as we’ve never seen her before – but as always with Billie, it goes deeper, and it is the story behind the transformation that is key. That Billie is 19, is often hailed as the antidote to toxic tropes for women in pop, and has been a reluctant icon of body positivity (a term she has a complicated relationship with), as well as, of course, a feminist thought leader for her fans, makes this an intriguing change of gear.
As the foremost musical star of her generation on social media, she lives in a world of snap judgements and harsh comments, a place where a layered thought process can get lost. She knows the stakes are high whenever she puts herself out there. But, as you will read in her interview with Laura Snapes, it was a moment she wanted to embrace. She has things to say about personal choice, about fear, about fun, about women’s bodies, and above all about confidence. “Don’t make me not a role model because you’re turned on by me,” she says. As ever with Billie, I am in awe.
Subscribe to the British Vogue newsletter
In March, I had the great pleasure of co-chairing the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund panel alongside British Fashion Council chief executive Caroline Rush. The annual shortlist of the most exciting up-and-coming talent in the industry is always a privilege to oversee, as well as an important responsibility. This year it felt markedly so. To say recent times have been hard on designers – and young designers especially – is an understatement. The resilience and creativity of all the finalists was humbling to see.
This year, I am pleased to announce Bethany Williams as the recipient of the £200,000 grant and industry stewardship. Bethany is an extraordinary talent who brings a depth to her process that is nothing short of inspirational. On top of her substantial gifts as a designer, she has rethought the way her collections are made, working with women who are homeless or in prison, among others, using her business to bring training and support. Coupled with her work with fellow fashion
creatives in the Emergency Designer Network last year, making PPE at the height of the first Covid wave, she really is a marvel.
Of course, there’s all the best of the season’s fashion, too. As the country finds its feet again for what we hope will be a freer summer, we headed to the sunny streets of London to celebrate the world coming back to life a little. I’m so pleased to have Lila Moss make her modelling debut for British Vogue, photographed by Angelo Pennetta, in easy pieces perfect for warmer days and for seeing more of each other. I find it so heartening to see some happiness out and about in the world again.
Speaking of which, we have a special treat: the incandescent Emma Thompson starring in a 14-page Juergen Teller couture extravaganza in Trafalgar Square. From her performances to her activism, I’ve been so inspired by Emma over the years, and the warmth of her wit and wisdom in the accompanying interview makes my heart sing. Here’s to a brighter summer for us all.
Subscribe to British Vogue
The June 2021 issue of British Vogue is on newsstands on 7 May.
