It’s no surprise that EBONY took time out to lovingly honor the late, great Andre Leon Talley.
When news broke that the legendary fashion editor and creative director passed away at the age of 73 last month, it shook and saddened the fashion world and black community alike, as we all came to the realization that we have lost yet another one of our greats.
And for Talley and the impact he had on fashion—racial barriers be damned—, “great” is an understatement. Throughout his career, Talley shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for other black men and women in the fashion world.
Talley was a bestselling author, iconic celebrity stylist, and even served as the trusted fashion advisor for both Barack and Michelle Obama.
But most notably, he was the first Black man to be the creative director and editor-at-large for Vogue—leading to an incredibly positive and progressive influence on the publication and their creative direction from 1983 to 2013.
Aside from his outstanding professional accomplishments, Talley was known for his memorable and vivacious personality that made him loved and respected by many—including his dear friend, model and designer, Kimora Lee Simmons.
And so, to offer a look into the more intimate sides of Talley, his life and his career, Ebony teamed up with Lee Simmons and Vogue-appearing journalist, Marjon Carlos, to deliver this very special tribute cover story.
You can read the full story here.
