Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, a visionary in the fashion world, has recently announced her departure from Vogue, marking the end of a significant chapter in her career. In a candid conversation on ‘The Business of Fashion’ podcast with Imran Ahmed, Karefa-Johnson, celebrated for her unique stylistic approach, shared insights into her decision to not renew her contract as the Global Fashion Director at Large.

Karefa-Johnson’s trailblazing journey in the fashion industry includes becoming the first Black woman to style a Vogue cover in 2021, featuring model Paloma Elsesser and photographed by Annie Leibovitz. In the same year, she was also at the helm of the Vogue cover shoot featuring Vice President Kamala Harris. Known for her keen eye for fashion and commitment to elevating emerging designers, Karefa-Johnson has consistently pushed the boundaries in her field.

 

Reflecting on her journey, which gained momentum as Tonnie Goodman’s assistant after completing her liberal arts education at Barnard College, Karefa-Johnson noted, “That resignation was something that was right for me at the time, still is right for me. The truth of the matter is we grow and sometimes our containers don’t grow with us. And so I am excited to build a new container for all of these ideas and this energy.”

Looking ahead to the next phase of her illustrious career, Karefa-Johnson is poised to apply her vast experience and innate passion for fashion in new, groundbreaking ways. “I just hope that whatever comes to be of this career of mine is something that models possibilities for the next Gabriella Karefa-Johnson,” she expressed with optimism.

During the podcast, Karefa-Johnson also highlighted her dedication to promoting the work of emerging talents such as Torishéju Dumi, a graduate from Central Saint Martins. She emphasized the challenges faced by young, black, female designers and her desire to provide them with crucial support and visibility in the competitive fashion industry.

As Karefa-Johnson steps into this exciting new era, her influence and contributions to the world of fashion continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to authentic representation in fashion.

Ntianu Obiora
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Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN