I can't help to admit that Linda's editorial is just GORGEOUSSSS! It reminds me a lot of Eugene Atget's turn-of-the-century photography, specifically of Parisian parks. The shots are all so pristine and beautiful. Linda looks divine, so regal and elegant. In my opinion, this is some of Steven's best work in a while, along with Kristen's tour de force in last month's issue.
That said, I agree that this is irrelevant. It seems that
VI is hardly ever on the cusp of what's happening everywhere else, but they just do what they want to do. While that may be commendable, it also becomes a bit annoying. For a good year, every single cover and main editorial has felt random and totally from out-of-nowhere. It seems like they just handpick a theme from a hat, or whatever Meisel feels inspired by, and choose to do it. To me,
VI is more of an art magazine than a fashion magazine. The focus is more on the skill and beauty of the photography than the clothes. There is not a balance between the two like there should be. That is my main issue with the magazine.
Also, it's very interesting that
VI has gone with older established models for their cover stars two months in a row. This probably means that September's girls will all be either mid-teens or barely legal

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