Anna Wintour, the global editorial director at Vogue, revealed in a podcast that her success in the fashion industry was far from smooth sailing. She admitted to being fired from one of her first jobs in fashion for not being able to “pin a dress,” claiming that she had limited talent and faked it until she made it. Despite lacking skills required for an assistant role, Wintour used connections, including her father’s position as editor of a London newspaper, to land a job as an editorial assistant at Harpers & Queen in London at the age of 18.
After her struggles in London, Wintour made the move to America to escape being defined by her origins, finding the transition from England to New York more liberating. Even though her first job in New York as a junior fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar ended in termination after just nine months due to her inability to pin a dress, Wintour stayed resilient. She previously mentioned being fired for being “too European” and not commercial or professional enough. However, she quickly moved on and found a new opportunity with Ed Kosner at New York Magazine, where she excelled in fashion journalism despite feeling out of place.
Reflecting on her career, Wintour emphasized the importance of mentors like Ed Kosner and others who believed in her talent and provided support. She credited them with helping her find success in the fast-paced fashion industry and passing on their wisdom to others, emphasizing the value of giving back. Wintour highlights the significance of helping others when one has received support in their career, underscoring the importance of mentorship and fostering a supportive environment in the workplace.
Wintour’s career trajectory saw her take on more prominent roles in the fashion world, with her becoming the editor of British Vogue in 1985 before returning to New York to lead House & Garden in 1987. Just ten months later, she was appointed as the editor-in-chief of American Vogue, solidifying her status as a fashion icon. Her journey from a challenging start in London to international success in the industry exemplifies the power of persistence, resilience, and seizing opportunities.
