On September 2, 2025, American Vogue appointed Chloe Malle, daughter of actress Candice Bergen and filmmaker Louis Malle, as its new Head of Editorial Content, succeeding Anna Wintour—who, after nearly four decades as editor-in-chief, stepped aside but continues in her roles as Global Editorial Director and Condé Nast Chief Content Officer.
The transition marks a significant shift both symbolically and structurally. Anna Wintour, the iconic figure who shaped Vogue and the Met Gala, remains closely involved while Chloe Malle now takes over the domestic editorial reins.
Born in 1985, Chloe Malle studied literature at Brown University and spent time at the Sorbonne in Paris before entering the world of publishing. She joined Vogue in 2011 as Social Editor, later moved into digital leadership, and became co-host of the fashion podcast The Run-Through. Under her direction, Vogue.com saw a major increase in audience engagement and visibility.
Malle has already indicated that she plans to steer Vogue toward fewer, more collectible print editions with strong cultural themes, placing more emphasis on digital storytelling and long-form journalism. The strategy reflects an industry trend toward quality over quantity as print readership continues to decline.
She has also addressed the elephant in the room: nepotism. Malle openly acknowledged her privilege, stating that she is a “proud nepo baby,” while insisting that her background pushed her to work harder to prove she is more than Candice Bergen’s daughter. Her candor has been praised by some as refreshing, even as others question the broader issue of access and opportunity in elite media circles.
Industry reaction to her appointment has been divided. Admirers describe her as warm, personable, and more approachable than her predecessor. Critics point to shrinking circulation and dwindling cultural relevance, noting that Vogue’s September issue has fallen from nearly 1,000 pages to just over 350 this year. Some doubt whether themed collectible issues can restore the magazine’s once-unshakable dominance.
Malle’s leadership style contrasts with the austere atmosphere that long defined Vogue. She is known for a lighter, more personal touch, even decorating her office with LEGO Disney villains made by her young son. Her first print issue is expected early next year, and all eyes will be on how she balances modernization with tradition.
Though Anna Wintour has officially handed off the title, she remains close at hand as both mentor and supervisor. Malle has said she is “very happy” about that arrangement, a sign that continuity will temper change.
Chloe Malle’s appointment represents more than a generational handoff—it highlights the ongoing debate between legacy, privilege, and innovation in fashion media. Whether her candidness and digital vision will reinvigorate the brand or whether her family ties will continue to overshadow her editorial authority remains to be seen.
