Chloe Malle has been appointed head of editorial content at American Vogue, succeeding Dame Anna Wintour after 37 years. The 39-year-old daughter of actress Candice Bergen and filmmaker Louis Malle will guide the magazine’s creative direction while reporting to Wintour.
Chloe Malle Ascends to Vogue’s Top Editorial Role
Chloe Malle officially took charge of American Vogue’s editorial direction on Monday 2nd September 2025. The magazine announced her appointment as head of editorial content, replacing the traditional editor-in-chief title.
Anna Wintour described Chloe Malle as “one of Vogue’s secret weapons” with exceptional storytelling instincts. The British fashion icon praised her ability to balance Vogue’s rich heritage with cutting-edge innovation.
She will join ten other heads of editorial content globally whilst reporting directly to Wintour. Her appointment ends months of speculation about Wintour’s successor following June’s transition announcement.
The new role combines editorial oversight across print, digital, video, and events platforms. She expressed excitement about being “part of this rapid evolution in fashion and media”.
Digital Success Drives Malle’s Promotion
Chloe Malle doubled Vogue.com’s direct traffic during her tenure as digital editor since 2023. Her leadership generated record engagement across major events including the Met Gala and Vogue World.
She launched innovative digital products including the viral “Dogue” issue featuring celebrity pets. She also created the Vogue Vintage Guide and expanded wedding coverage by 30%.
Her editorial newsletters and annual digital tentpoles transformed Vogue’s online presence significantly. She successfully bridged traditional fashion journalism with contemporary digital consumption habits.
The Run-Through podcast, which she co-hosts with Chioma Nnadi, became essential listening for fashion insiders. Chloe Malle demonstrated expertise across multiple media formats throughout her Vogue career.
Hollywood Heritage and Academic Background
Chloe Malle was born on 8th November 1985 in New York City to prominent entertainment figures. Her mother Candice Bergen starred in Murphy Brown whilst father Louis Malle directed acclaimed films.
She grew up alternating between Paris and Los Angeles until her father’s death when she was ten. She attended Brown University before beginning her journalism career at The New York Observer.
Her privileged background sparked nepotism discussions, which she addressed directly in recent interviews. She acknowledged benefiting from her upbringing whilst emphasising her dedication to proving herself professionally.
The new editor described herself as a “proud nepo baby” whilst highlighting her work ethic. She stated her motivation comes from wanting to demonstrate capability beyond family connections.
Fourteen-Year Vogue Journey Culminates
Chloe Malle joined Vogue in 2011 as social editor responsible for weddings and society coverage. She progressed to contributing editor in 2016, managing features and special projects.
Her portfolio includes notable interviews with Lauren Sánchez Bezos and Gigi Hadid for major cover stories. She also edited multiple Vogue books including “Vogue Weddings” and “Vogue Living”.
She conducted a high-profile wedding shoot for Naomi Biden whilst building relationships with political figures. She demonstrated versatility across fashion, politics, beauty, and lifestyle content.
Her rise through Vogue’s ranks reflects understanding of both traditional publishing and digital transformation. She experienced every aspect of magazine production during her tenure.
Anna Wintour Remains Powerful Force
Chloe Malle will work closely with Wintour, who retains significant influence as chief content officer. The fashion legend continues overseeing Vogue’s 28 international editions and major events.
Wintour’s transition allows focus on global expansion whilst maintaining creative input. She expressed eagerness to mentor Chloe Malle whilst learning from her fresh perspective.
The appointment represents evolution rather than revolution for American Vogue’s editorial direction. She benefits from Wintour’s continued guidance during her transition period.
Industry observers note that significant changes remain unlikely whilst Wintour maintains oversight. Chloe Malle must establish her own identity whilst respecting established traditions.
Fashion Week Debut Approaches
Chloe Malle faces her first major test during New York Fashion Week beginning later this month. Her editorial choices will be scrutinised by industry insiders and media critics.
The appointment timing ensures she oversees September’s crucial fashion coverage. Chloe Malle must demonstrate editorial vision whilst maintaining Vogue’s market-leading position.
Spring collections provide opportunities to showcase her aesthetic preferences and editorial priorities. Fashion designers will observe how Chloe Malle shapes Vogue’s influence on upcoming trends.
Her first major fashion week represents a defining moment for establishing editorial credibility. Chloe Malle must balance continuity with personal creative vision.
Political Engagement and Liberal Values
Chloe Malle shares Wintour’s progressive political stance and social activism commitments. Her liberal viewpoints align with Vogue’s established editorial positioning on social issues.
She has written extensively about political topics whilst maintaining fashion journalism focus. Chloe Malle demonstrated ability to integrate cultural commentary with luxury content.
Her political engagement reflects Vogue’s broader influence beyond fashion into social movements. The magazine’s political coverage will likely continue under Chloe Malle’s leadership.
Fashion and politics increasingly intersect in contemporary media landscapes. Chloe Malle must navigate these complex relationships whilst serving diverse readerships.
Read More: Jaguar Land Rover: Cyber Attack Cripples Production as Electric Revolution Continues
