Samira Nasr has been named the first black editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar

He wrote Oscar Holland, CNN

Fashion magazine named Harper’s Bazaar a black editor-in-chief for the first time in its 153-year history.

Samira Nasr, who was recently the executive director of the fashion house Vanity Fair, will be the head of the American edition from next month, the publisher Hearst announced on Tuesday.

The Montreal-born Nasr replaces longtime magazine editor Glenda Bailey, who announced in January that she was stepping down after nearly 19 years at the helm. IN video published on social media, she described how she feels “honored” to have been chosen for the best job “at this point in the history of our nation”.

“As the proud daughter of a Lebanese father and a Trinidadian mother, my worldview is broad and anchored in the belief that representation matters,” Nasr said. “My lenses are vivid by nature. That’s why it’s important for me to begin a new chapter in the history of the Bazaar with a bright light on all the individuals I find to be the inspiring voices of our time.”

The move marks the return of Hearst for Nasr, who was previously the fashion director at another of the company’s titles, Elle. Prior to that, she held a directorial role in fashion magazine InStyle, and began her career as an assistant to Vogue’s former creative director Grace Coddington.

Using a two-minute video, Nasr shared his broader vision for Harper’s Bazaar, which he had last year. Circulation of about 762,000. Hinting that she might want to expand the focus of the title, she said she hopes to “reconsider what a fashion magazine can be like in today’s world.”

“I believe Harper’s Bazaar can provide the best in fashion, and it’s all a place where the community can come together to celebrate the arts, music, pop culture and also learn about the important issues we face today as women,” she said, “like the struggle for human rights, our reproductive rights and the obstacles we face as we fight for equality in the workplace. “

Nasr also offered a message of solidarity to protesters and activists who took to the streets across America after the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.

“I see you, thank you and I hope we will be able to join forces to reinforce the message of equality because black lives will be important,” she said.

Positive reception

IN statement announcing the decision, Hearst president Troy Young said Nasr’s voice would “continue to develop the brand’s distinctive position as a style as a cornerstone for the most boring of fashion”. By the way, her appointment was welcomed by prominent personalities from the media and the fashion industry.
“My gurl!” Tweeted actress, singer and red carpet cast, Janelle Monae, “but hell 153 years?”
Fashion designer Prabal Gurung wrote: “Very good news that we all need to hear. Congratulations to Samir Nasr @harpersbazaarus, you did well !!!”

Meanwhile, current Nasra boss, Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Radhika Jones, wished her well in her new role.

“She’s a chic avatar, always ahead of the curve,” Jones wrote in an Instagram description that follows a picture of the couple. “I’m so happy for her and her new team. And I’m so glad at this point in history to see this role go to a woman of color.”
That move comes less than a week after Hearst announced fundraising efforts for organizations fighting racial injustice. The publisher said it would match and double staff contributions to $ 500,000.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *