Asian Faces In High Fashion

[Prymasquous]

VOGUE CHINA
5.28.15

Essentially this is to harp on the continuation of choosing Chinese/Asian faces on covers.

*

If one were to visit VC covers archive here to get an overview -
overall VC has been fair in balancing their cover stars (though perhaps not as diverse as it could be).
It appears that in VC's history, only one cover was given to someone who wasn't either Asian or white.
And that was Ms. Campbell back in 2009.


To go straight to the point and to illustrate, here are the six covers of this year thus far.


astairwaytofashion.wordpress.com, bloginvoga.com, designscene.net, gaspargloves.com, imgmodels.com, premiermodelstyle.com



Evidently VC hasn't been good at balancing its cover stars thus far in 2015 in terms of diversity.
In Chinese context diversity is Chinese/Asian and white. Yup.
And mostly a mixture of models and actresses which can be dull.

+

To corroborate and if one's interested, one can review VC's history in terms of Chinese versus white.

By the numbers, here's a quick breakdown:


2005:
1 month covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 3 issues
*the year that VC was launched with its premiere issue being the only cover that had Chinese; 5 Chinese faces

2006:
3 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 10 issues
*one month was shared by two white models; 3 Chinese faces

2007:
6 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 6 issues
*one month had four Chinese models - good; one cover is a mixed-race model that appears very much white; 9 Chinese faces

2008:
7 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 6 issues
*one month had two separate covers in which one was white and Chinese; 7 Chinese faces

2009:
6 months covered by Asians | whites appeared on 5 issues
*plus one with a black model making it 6-5-1; 6 Asian faces

2010:
5 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 9 issues
*two months was shared by white models; one month had 5 Asian models; 10 Asian faces

2011:
6 months covered by Asians | whites appeared on 6 issues
*no covers shared, with one cover had six Chinese models; 11 Asian faces

2012:
6 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 7 issues
*two months was shared by white models; 8 Chinese faces

2013:
7 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 6 issues
*one month was shared by white models; 10 Chinese faces

2014:
6 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 6 issues
*well balanced with one month with two covers both Chinese; 9 Chinese faces

2015:
2 months covered by Chinese | whites appeared on 4 issues

_

Worst years has to be 2006 and 2010 (other than '05).
Best years may go to 2014 closely by 2011.

Note that who gets selected and who appears on what month weren't taken into account.

*

After calculating and reviewing, a white woman can/should only appear at the very most with two more issues;
meanwhile Chinese are yet to cover at least four more months...
Of course, if they care and continue to follow suit in terms of being fair and equally distributing its covers.


Hopefully the July issue is a Chinese beauty (or Asian).​

 

[Prymasquous]

Fist wow, am actually stunned that only one black person has ever appeared in VC's history... May more of them get a cover or perhaps Ms. Cheung could be more inclusive. Like seriously. A suggestion of course.


Personally hope that VC can be more open minded in selecting their cover stars in the near future. There are plenty of other actresses/celebs other than their favorite girls.

Would also be nice to see Korean models fronting VC as they've appeared sporadically through the years (and they had Song Hye Kyo, the actress, once).

And would be cool to see Tao score a solo VC cover too. She's familiar, so why not. (And she's practically a bonafide actress now too!)

But obviously, more support to their local talents as a boost. Think of Jing, Luping, Dylan, Yuan, Cong, Bonnie, Wang Xiao, Cici, Xiao Xing, Lina and the list goes on... How some of these didn't even receive a cover yet or more is still puzzling.




Anyway, if read correctly, every individual issues comes with a supplement.

What I basically want to say is that some of their supplement covers are much more nicer than the main cover. For instance, this cover with Carina:

weibo.com​

Not everything is perfect but the image itself is so, so cover worthy for a newsstand/main. Very elegant and welcoming and I might add, womanly too. Perhaps a bit too commercial for VC... IMO it's one of VC best covers in a while.

 

[Prymasquous]

VOGUE ITALIA JUNE 2015 - '中国特辑'
06.06.2015

***

Having to say that you've appeared on a major Vogue cover means you've reached somewhere.
A stepping stone into the gate of the print world of high-fashion and its glossy pages.
And a memorable experience that has meanings to a model's career.

With the rise of China and to initiate an open dialogue, at this moment,
Vogue Italia has cleverly dedicated the June issue to China.

Without hesitation,
to represent China, it only makes sense to offer these covers to the chosen models:
Fei Fei, Xiao Wen, Yuan, Jing, Fernanda and Gia Tang.


made by me courtesy of wwd.com


*Note that all model's heritage indeed goes back to China.
Though technically Gia is from Taiwan, Fernanda is Australian and the other three are from Mainland China.
Not a very big deal - just for clarity!​

 

[Prymasquous]

Let's be honest. Securing one of the major Vogue (let alone any Vogue) isn't an easy achievement for Asian models in general. With the disparity of covers given to them it's onlyright to celebrate, and even to the extent of suggesting, or some may say, demand covers for these working models too.


Now that everything is revealed, very stoked at the thought of this being a Chinese issue and being it four covers. Also there weren't just four but six models who nabbed a cover. That, I'm thrilled for each individual and they can now say they've covered VI as a high-fashion model. Congrats!


As for the covers itself. Initially was unimpressed, underwhelmed and discontented. There's all things one could do to upgrade these covers. But they aren't that bad IMO. All four covers there's at least something that I like.

Personally like Yuan's the best, though would've prefer if the overall photography was darker in mood or perhaps color-wise, make it darker; then Fei Fei and Xiao Wen, last would be the trio.


However, the biggest, biggest complaint is to not see Liu Wen (could add Ming, Sui, Shu Pei and Du Juan) on the cover or being part of the China issue. Liu is literally China's biggest name of any Chinese/Asian model this moment. Perplexed and very disappointed. I don't think it's my bias towards Liu here that charges me to say this, but I think it's just a given, especially of Liu's stature that she should've been included. Period. Liu is consistently being overlooked. And I have some theories as to why that may be. But I'll save it.

And what was the method of choosing which models? Was it Ms. Sozanni or the photographer/stylist decision?

Either way, as much as this argument won't win, they do know that Liu has over 10 million followers on her weibo + over 900k on instagrams let alone not including facebook and twitter... Couldn't they consider that? Or that those individuals who admires Liu would hopefully pick up the magazine? Thought this was where people would choose models based off of followers and such. What happened here?

True, just because the number of followers is there doesn't necessarily translate or will it make one purchase a VI cover of Liu, or they have the means to do so...speaking of hardcore and loyal admirers and younger generation of extremity, I think a handful would do so not in spite of impulse but of support. I think it has a fighting chance.

But I forget. Most people (including myself) probably cannot afford the clothes and it won't matter, because it's more about the advertisers...negating everything else.


Just gonna stop because it's not like this is a story that features China/Asia/World's most influential models in history. That, Liu Wen should not be omitted.

 

[Prymasquous]

Anyone is welcome to share their opinions/feelings regarding anything Asian in fashion in general here!

 

[Prymasquous]

I know MDC isn't the best place of measuring something, but the models on VI June lasted a mere few days, unfortunately...



models.com
​

 

[Prymasquous]

Random Thought...


So, this September will mark Vogue China's 10th anniversary... so this should at least be exciting. I think Angelica should go all-out and make it special and memorable.

Furthermore since it's a decade and to commemorate the existence of VC and the impact and influence that China has, this prompt whether the publication will utilize local talents for this issue. Specifically, Angelica should honor and make this personal, with a keen attention of supporting and exposing local talents. Angelica herself is an advocate (or at least the impression that once could get from her interviews) for introducing talents of Chinese descent. So why not use this opportunity and elevate China's presence and their creative talents in this particular issue.

For example, the photographer should be Chen Man since she seems to be the principal choice due to her recent accolade. Think it'll be reasonable to give her the Sept. cover. Or someone else...

The cover star should be Chinese. No doubt. Models is preferable but since last year was an actress, another starlet may appear. Would be incredible and 'fresh' to have models and actresses occupy this issue (how about a large group shot?! ). They'll probably have to be Angelica's favorite which we may see familiar faces... And multi-covers isn't necessarily a bad idea.

Of course, not every individual who partake on this issue or on the cover subject should be exclusively Chinese. That's not the point and it won't happen. Just think it's more important to celebrate the photographer and the cover talent(s). Though it would be cool to highlight their up-and-coming designers which seems to gain more interest (and perhaps fashion editors, hair/makeup stylists and other talents too), though they may very well be featured elsewhere instead, like usually. Still great to be featured.

Will all this happen? No. But it'll be great to see Chinese celebrating Chinese. And this is like a perfect opportunity to showcase their potential and all their hard past work. No?

After all, VC should be/is a force to be reckoned with among the Vogue sisters in terms of production, contributors, sales/readership and more importantly the pages that advertisers are buying. Therefore, VC could afford to be 'loose' and go for a change by their own standard for this issue. Idealistic but why not? Either way it's incredible to see how VC has evolved from its inception to its current state and hopefully they'll only improve for the better.

Here was a recent article published + pictures here...


theguardian.com​

 

[TheoG]

Firstly, Prymasquous your post are always so enlightening!

I have also shared similar thoughts about VC September issue. In the past they have done glorious September covers. Particularly the in 2010 -- with Shu, Liu, Ming, Tao & Fei Fei. Which still do this day is one of my favorite covers!


models.com

What I also love is the fact that their all in Alexander Wang. As you mentioned this would be a perfect time to celebrate Chinese models especially fresher faces. Or give it a established at last not that exciting. Seeing an actress would not be much of a surprising being the times in all. Last September seemed to given to Fan Bing Bing mostly due to her relationship with Louis Vuitton, since it was Nicholas debut collection. Chen Man, Trunk Xu or someone unexpected of Chinese descent would be thrilling! What I don't want to see it Testino, Angelica seems to be fond of him and have formed a relationship in the business. Albeit a remarkable photographer but as of late he's work has not be inspiring. Angelica does take risk with her readers. This September issue is the opportunity to blow our minds. Let's hope she does!

 

[Prymasquous]

^ Yes that particular issue spoke to me too! It was kind of revolutionary in the sense it was a time where Chinese/Asian models were storming onto the scene; and it was great to see these models get a break! Plus that issue was where VC went back to MG for their Sept. issues until Ms. Fan took over. (Can we please go back to models and perhaps multi-covers too? I just prefer options and it's always nice to see various interpretation.)

Agree. No Testino please. Even though I bought his Shu Qi's cover, a different name lens the Sept. cover should be anyone but him (or Demarchelier even if he shot their very first cover, sorry Patrick!)...

Sadly I'm not that knowledgeable of Chinese photogs. other than Chen Man, Yin Chao, Kai Z. Feng, Trunk Xu, Li Qi, Zack Zhang, Liang Zi (and Jumbo Tsui)... A new approach would be nice. And I know that people will critique their work and think they aren't that original or have the creative capacity to produce amazing outcome. So, that might be a challenge and VC will have to compromise and choose the best that will achieve the spirit of the magazine/story. Or opt for a western name.

And at the top of my head Uma Wang and Masha Maa only comes to my mind. There's plenty but I too haven't kept tabs on emerging local talents. Even if VC cannot afford to put a local designer on its cover, they will be featured somewhere so no loss for them.


As for the content, I hope they have a really, really big budget to make this an epic issue. There's so many ideas of the stories that VC could do.

What we could expect: VC will most likely do a review and highlight the growth of the magazine has become and what's the future that lies ahead; and a celebratory speech/article. Perhaps they may also chronicle their best work and covers and bits of pieces of the individuals that made VC possible... and all of that usual jazz with these anniversary issues.

It'll be interesting to see what's the theme or cover line for their 10th anniversary issue will be. Hopefully it won't be a predictable one-liner such as 'Happy 10th anniversary' or the like. It should allude to a statement of the publication and the goal and identity of VC first and foremost. No?

If we can figure that out then we may follow-up on what the cover may look like and who'll be on the cover and who shoots it. Obviously we won't know that.

 

[Prymasquous]

Personally what I want is multi-covers. I want one cover to feature Chinese models; and the other cover should feature some actresses.


1. First cover should be lens by Steven Meisel and as a fold out; all wearing the hottest and best fashion names all in one (and not just one brand).

The beauties would be:

• Du Juan, Emma Pei, Mo Wandan, Liu Wen, Shu Pei, Fei Fei, Ming Xi, Sui He, Xiao Wen, Bonnie Chen, Wang Xiao, Miao Bin Si, Liu Lijun, Grace Gao, Kiki Kang, Xiao Xing, Liu Xu, Feng Qi Wen, Li Wei, Lily Zhi, Tianyi, Lina Zhang, Cici, Jing Wen, Yuan Bo Chao, Luping Wong, Dylan Xue, Cong He, Yue Han, Jessie Hsu (and Ping Hue, Ash Foo, Fernanda Ly)...

Actually I have more girls that I would like to add, but I think those have higher chances to be on. But more like a wishlist! Not gonna happen.




2. As for the stars it's obvious these will be Angelica's favorites. This should be photographed by Chen Man (I chose her just for the sake of it and as a shoo-in). They should wear Chinese designs and paired with western brands accessories to call it even. Also a fold out; and the women should be:

• Maggie Cheung, Shu Qi, Zhang Ziyi, Zhou Xun, Zhao Wei, Li Bingbing, Fan Bingbing and (Gong Li); and the other wonderful women that were at the MET this year, may have a chance.

However I personally would want, in no particular favoriting, are:

• Bridgette Lin, Gong Li, Joey Wong, Rosamund Kwan, Chingmy Yau, Sharla Cheung, Michelle Yeoh, Carina Lau, Shu Qi, Zhao Wei, Zhang Ziyi, Maggie Cheung and (Zhou Xun).

This most definitely won't happen, especially the latter list because most of them aren't 'fresh' (as they are older, mature women now) and they aren't that visible and popular as the first list of girls. And I know. These faces are the same 'ol faces and just actresses. Most of them I'm just going by whom Angelica likes. My personal list is new in the sense most of the women that I picked have never been on the cover...





Will all this ever happen? Hell no. But if I were Angelica, this is what I would do. Make two epic covers with the best models of China and the actresses she admires (but I think it should be the faces that did elevated and propelled China's presence internationally, especially with cinema - and that is my list).


I would assume Chinese residents wouldn't abandon this idea entirely. You'll have faces that people would like (more so than dislike), all in one. Two separate covers because some prefer models and others may want actors/celebs. Some would want both!

Or....

Have the best models and actresses altogether like this:


wearesodroee.com​

I don't have the photoshop skills to edit this cover. But I don't think 50 would do, and I don't like 10 because that's not enough names... but if 10 individuals were to front (signifying 10 years), then there should be 5 models and 5 actresses onto one group shot. That's fair. If not Chinese then Meisel would do the job!



Wishful thinking and hypothetically speaking!

 

[TheoG]

Both of your predictions sound quite feasible. I would have questioned Meisel shooting for VC but now with the current situation at VI. It appears that he's no longer tired down. I cannot recall him ever shooting for VC? Now that's something I would enjoy seeing. There isn't many photographers that can capture group shots as in the one he shot last years for VI anniversary.

I think we can expect to seeing something big for this issue. Unlike another Vogues, Vogue China & Vogue Korea seem to take their anniversaries issues seriously. Most likely do to the fact that they haven't been around as long. Another speculation of photographers is maybe Patrick Demarchelier? He shot last years September cover and I think the first issue. Paying homage to him is not a far reach.

Deciding on the models to land the cover is the the most difficult aspect of the issue. The opinions your determined is brilliant, and very much a celebration of Chinese models and the impact they have had in fashion. Or Angelica will slap Maggie Cheung on the cover and call it a day! (Who I love, but much prefer models or fuses on actress and models) The opportunities are endless.

The August issue coming out in a few days so hopefully that issue will give us a little help in figuring out who will be on the Sept. Issue. Another thing that worries me is the opportunity for a non-Asian model to front the cover. Which I have nothing against, but for this particular issue I think it need its given to a girl from the homeland.

 

[Prymasquous]

^ Ooh! I hope she doesn't land the Sept. cover. Nothing against her, but she could get any other month but that issue... in the case of a non-Asian woman. And no I'm aware that you didn't mentioned any names. Just that this face popped up when you mentioned that!


Yes! The August cover should surface some time soon! Not sure whether to feel a little excited or anxious.... Blah!




And I'll respond to your post at another time, TheoG!

 

[Prymasquous]

Nevermind. Had this whole theory as to why Meisel should shoot for VC. But no, after more thought, it's just not clicking. Or at least I can't seem to articulate what I want to say yet. I mean it's there but not sure if it was likely to happen. I mean could you imagine Meisel shooting for VC?


Either way I initially suggested Meisel mainly because of VI and its association with China. And by that what I mean is that VI has been expanding their interests and networking with China more so now.


And since I cannot read italian I don't know why the June issue was a Chinese issue and more importantly not lensed by Meisel... it's just suspicious (although it's intriguing and a nice pitch from VI's part for having four photogs and whether they were testing the water for a change in the future). To this day, still pondering why this occurred.


Also, what are the chances VI and VC are exchanging/collaborating or better yet assisting one another? Publications among the Vogues don't do that, right? It sounds weird saying that but that's a genuine question.

Basically could Meisel elevate VC knowing China is the future of opportunity for ever-increasing markets, talent, revenue, resources and the prospects/outcome of the publication itself if Vogue China and Steven Meisel were to build a new partnership...



With that said I think it may just be coincidental and thinking a tad too much. Please take this with a grain of salt.

 

[Prymasquous]

Another thing that worries me is the opportunity for a non-Asian model to front the cover. Which I have nothing against, but for this particular issue I think it need its given to a girl from the homeland.

Agree. Just want to clarify for my above statement (#552). I'm not necessarily oppose to the idea of having a non-Asian on the Sept. cover (they've covered before), but just not this year's anniversary issue.

The August issue coming out in a few days so hopefully that issue will give us a little help in figuring out who will be on the Sept. Issue.

Should we keep speculating?

• Zhang Ziyi is on VC's Aug. supplement issue
  
• Shu Qi covered Harper's Baazaar China Aug. issue
  
• And both were shot by Chen Man...

So... what's the likelihood of these three women being a part of the Sept. issue?

I don't know the business "protocol" behind China and how they operate with their cover stars and photographers (well, magazines and business in general)... but let's just say that their chances are slim, for the anniversary issue. No? Hypothetically speaking.


Not sure, who knows what it could be. We shall see.

 

[Prymasquous]

Well, VC came sooner than it was anticipated.



Just so, so glad to see these wonderful women. One big complaint is the absence of Gong Li knowing this was shot during the MET. Opportunity missed. Badly.


Though what's cool, after learning, is that the cover indeed featured all Chinese/Asian designers. Not many low-profile/local talents were given the opportunity for the cover slot (for practical reasons) which should've put more emphasis. Nevertheless glad VC, Angelica and co. saw this opportunity and made it happen. It was bound to happen after all it's a tribute/celebration.


And TheoG's speculation was spot on. (He must've known this all along.) Who would've thought September would be lensed by Testino. I mean it was inevitable I guess... Yeah initially wasn't necessarily excited at the sight or hearing of his name attached to the Sept. issue, but the outcome editorial isn't that bad actually. Testino captured some beautiful shots IMO. However, would've like something else to incorporate in the story/pictures to emphasize the theme; and why just three gold dresses on the cover? Should've been five... that's just nitpicking. The whole channeling/embodying a character in the womens' career was an interesting idea. Liked that. Though that translation into pictures, probably wasn't properly captured. They looked beautiful in motion though.


Personally, the biggest disppointment is the cover itself. It's underwhelming, honestly. Nothing to write home about. The overall production and creativity just lacking that something, something... that touch. That feeling. Doesn't struck a chord for me unfortunately... And perhaps it's the aesthetic, art direction and 'look' that is VC makes it VC that wound up with this result. Guess that reflected their standards. Still an okay image.


Not too crazy but may the content makes up for this anniversary issue.

 

[Prymasquous]

VOGUE KOREA
08.16.2015

*

Just like Vogue China it would be great to see more Korean models on the front cover of their home country's Vogue.

Since tFS doesn't have a proper archive of all VK covers to review, therefore an analysis isn't necessary.
Though, it would've been very interesting to see those earlier days.

Despite the lack of material, MDC has been instrumental to generate the following data
for a general idea of whom appeared on the glossy magazine in the past five years.

Note: Issues bolded to indicate Korean/Asians as cover stars


2015

August: Tilda Swinton
July: Big Bang/Toni Garrn (separate covers)
June: Aymenline Valade
May: Sasha Pivovarova
April: Abbey Lee
March: Saskia de Brauw
February: Andreea Diaconu
January: G-Dragon & Hanne Gaby (+ solos)

2014

December: Sasha Pivovarova
November: Caroline Trentini
October: Sam Rollinson
September: Song Hye Kyo & Kang Dong Won
August: Karen, Anja, Joan, Lily, Candice (solos)
July: Lindsey Wixson
June: Kim Yuna
May: Karlie Kloss
April: Suvi Kaponen
March: Suki Waterhouse
February: Kasia Struss
January: Anja Rubik

2013

December: Arizona Muse
November: Aymeline Valade
October: Karen Elson
September: Jeon Jihyun
August: Jihye, Sunghee, Soojoo (solos, each with G-Dragon)
July: Miranda Kerr
June: Soojoo
May: Lea Seydoux
April: Lindsey Wixson
March: Joan, Doutzen, Daria, Saskia, Kati (solos)
February: Malgosia Bela
January: Jihye & Sunghee

2012

December: Cara Delevingne
November: Carolyn Murphy
October: Anja Rubik
September: Arizona Muse
August: Lara Stone
July: Gisele Bundchen (reprint)
June: Han Jin
May: Saskia de Brauw
April: Daphne Groeneveld
March: Karlie Kloss
February: Kasia Struss
January: Arizona Muse

2011

December: Song Hye Kyo
November: Mariacarla Boscono
October: Karen Elson
September: Arizona Muse
August: Han Jin, Hye Jung, Lee Hyunyi, Song Kyungah, Kim Wong Yeong, Jang Yoonju, Jeong Yihye (15 covers?)
July: Isabeli Fontana (reprint)
June: Alexa Chung
May: Han Jin, Hye Jung, Lee Hyunyi
April: Sasha Pivovarova
March: Tang Wei & Hyun Bin
February: Hanne Gaby
January: Karen Elson & Tom Ford (reprint)

*

Best year for Korean/Asians, post-2010:

2011 was the best in terms of diversity from actors to models and Chinese; 2013 was also good to models

Last Asian Face, pre-2011: March 2010: Kim Tae Hee

Last Korean Model(s), pre-2011: June 2009: Han Jin & Lee Hyunyi

+

It appears Sasha has the most covers (at least 8x) then followed by Anja, Karen and Arizona in recent time (post-2008)...
and I believe Han Jin appeared on at least six issues overall.


*

Now, to the purpose of this post and on a serious note, it would be very nice to see a Korean model get a cover.



made by me courtesy of: designscene.net, fashiongonerogue.com, imgmodels.com, models.com, wearesodroee.com


So far, not one Korean/Asian face yet (with the exception of Big Bang/GD as they aren't fashion models or girls).

And yet we have Sora, the latest Korean model to make a splash in the fashion scene, hasn't graced the cover of Vogue Korea.
Sora has appeared in the magazine but yet to land that cover.
With previous Korean models such as Jihye, Sunghee and Soojoo whom all have scored covers
to appoint their presence in the modeling/fashion world and just literally to help ease their career as a new face.

Given that the last model to front a cover was two years ago, think it's reasonable to feature one. Like now.
All this is not to say that VK doesn't support their native models because they actually do,
but just not given the opportunity for covers (especially recently).


It's incredibly disappointing to know that tFS doesn't have those covers to assist this discussion.
Just think it would be interesting to see whether there were more Korean/Asian faces after 2010 or before.
And although there are more Korean models now,
one wonder whether covers given to Korean models were more prevalent back then than now.


Lastly, not knowing that their August issue was their anniversary issue, it would've been nice to see a familiar face.
Not really a big deal honestly.
Hopefully next year Vogue Korea will make a tribute to their Korean models (or celebs) as that will be their 20th anniversary.

Of course, these publications can do whatever they want. Who appears is their decision.
Just think it'll be nice to see someone Korean. Very simple.
​

 

[Prymasquous]

Please note that this isn't an attack or the models is at fault, but more so of the system and the mechanism and the many interwoven things that lead up to the cover choice (and those who makes them). It's complicated. And I'm not necessarily angry just want to bring these issues to the surface. I don't like what I see and hopefully this urge/contribute some form of change...


Just learned that VK Sept. is Ms. Valletta. Good for her. But I'm/we're in dire need of Koreans... how about bringing back some former faces such as Hye Park (she's still relevant IMO)? Heck even the favorite Han Jin could get another cover, who is featured almost in every issues. Or Soyoung... Or the current crop and newly faces?



Anyway VK has some pretty looking covers (sometimes/generally if done right) and personally I enjoy their background choice, colors and text lettering the most... and it's not always a studio shot or plain gray/white scene. That's a positive for VK, that'll give.

 

[Prymasquous]

VOGUE 中国: ICONIC
September 2015

***
Gold | Silver

Left to right from our view:

Zhao Wei in Derek Lam, Carina Lau in Andrew Gn, Liu Wen in Phillip Lim, Fan Bingbing in Huishan Zhang, Tang Wei in Altuzarra
Li Bingbing in Guo Pei, Zhang Ziyi in Jason Wu, Du Juan in Vera Wang, Zhou Xun in Thakoon
and Li Yuchun in Alexander Wang *six were custom made


photocouture-show.com | + BTS video here




As for the purpose of this post...

Just want to praise and congratulate the two pioneers in fashion modeling
for just not their sheer beauty, talent and dedication; but as well
their relentless role in challenging, shaping and transcending beauty ideals and power relation.
They're shining examples who've paved the way for the next generation,
and cultivating new ideas and images for many decades to come.
To recognize their contribution, both distinguished models have evolved into iconic women.

Thanks to Vogue China for ever supporting their homegrown talents continuously.

China's Representative Icons:
Du Juan (杜鹃) & Liu Wen (刘雯)

gif by me via instagram/melvin0619
​

 

[Prymasquous]

In campaign news,
just want to see how many Asian models/faces are seen through F/W 2015 ad campaigns.


Fernanda Ly: Louis Vuitton
Issa: Marc Jacobs
Sora: Dolce & Gabbana
Tiana: CK Jeans, Jimmy Choo
Jing: Tommy Hilfiger Denim, Zara TRF
Luping: Ports 1961, Shiatzy Chen
Shujing Zhou: Aquascutum
Jessie Hsu: Cocoon, Chaotique Studio
Karmay: G-Star Raw Jeans
Sunghee: United Colors of Bennetton, M.A.C.
Chiharu: Brunello Cucinelli, Moussy, Kimora Lee Simmons
Tianyi: Kuho
Soojoo: L'Oreal contract, JUUN.J, Mimco
Bonnie: Shanghai Tang
Xiao Wen: L'Oreal, CK One, M.A.C., Sephora, Moussy + Samsung
Sui He: Shiseido contract, Bloomingdales
Ming: Kenzo fragrance, Sephora, MCM
Fei Fei: DSquared2, Coach, COS, Moussy
Liu Wen: Tiffany & Co, La Perla, Massimo Dutti NYC, H&M, GAP, Esprit, Erdos, Staccato
Tao: Moussy


+ there's a new Chinese girl for Maybelline; an unknown model in Levis Jeans;
Irene Kim with Aldo; Yi Zhou, an artist, in Iceberg;
and Li Yuchun for Givenchy

Lastly Phillip Lim had cast local Bhutanese women for his F/W campaign:


wefolk.com



Note:
This is not an official list of all working models and their campaigns;
or is it a reflection of all released/unreleased campaigns. But a brief idea of what they're getting essentially.

If there are names and campaigns that are missing, please add. Or correct any error.
Any contribution would be nice. ​

 

[Prymasquous]

Most, if not all major brands have released their campaigns. So it'll be interesting to see whether there will be last minute surprises or not. (Read that Jing was supposed to get something big, but nothing has surface yet. And Xiao Xing is suppose to have something? Big or not. Getting the job is all that matters.)

Anyway, even though they aren't blue-chip, Liu has the most campaigns yet (surprise, but not really, knowing her relationship with the brands). And good for Xiao Wen for nabbing so much cosmetic campaigns in a season. And for Ming to have a fragrance is pure awesome. Very few Asians have ever given that kind of opportunity. Very proud of her!

As the leading lady of high fashion, Fei Fei's campaigns are kind of disappointing... It's subjective and might sound ungrateful but that's just me, because I think there should be more emphasis on her to get at least one blue-chip or some other brands (despite the Meisel pairing).

For new faces it's kind of disappointing, I mean everyone can't have them all. But for some, such as Sora, Luping, Tiana and Shujing... it's a starting place for them. Not bad. Good for them.

And for the most anticipated and much buzzed around model, to officially front the brand's campaign that she so exclusively walked for, is exceptional. Have been a while we've seen a new face come by and enable to harness it under her belt with little difficulty. Her success may be conspicuous. But to savor the moment, a much accomplish for Fernanda!