Noted by Colin McDowell

There couldn’t be a better time for Anna Wintour to be in London. She is giving the 25th anniversary of the British Fashion Council a huge boost by her presence. In over 20 years as editor-in-chief of US Vogue, she has changed

fashion from an esoteric pastime for the privileged to a driving force for young and old, poor or rich across the globe. That is why she is the single most important individual in the fashion world today, with an
influence and status far beyond that of any designer.

But it is for other reasons that we should welcome this most stylish of women to London this week. Criticised – and has anyone in fashion ever had so much negative copy? – for her attitude to fur, she is rarely praised for he considerable help and support that she uses her iconic status to give to young designers in order to help them further their careers. In no case is this more true than with young British designers, from John Galliano years ago to Roland Mouret and Jonathan Saunders,  who benefit from her advice and wise counsel, given with no fanfare or publicity at all.

Here’s an idea. For this week at least, let us put all the bile behind us, and keep silent about the stories of what a horror she is to work with (although I don’t seem to have seen any great exodus of damaged and disillusioned staff from US Vogue during Anna Wintour’s tenure). Instead, let us welcome as a privilege the presence of this remarkable woman in London for our anniversary and praise her for her valuable reign. I might even give her a porcelain Royal Worcester coffee can and saucer to replace that Starbucks paper cup as seen in her delicate grip. Somehow, it doesn’t quite match her substance.

Colin McDowell colin.mcdowell@me.com

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