AMP in the post
However, a subtle moment of drama took center stage at the Fashion Show & Style Awards, hosted by Harlem’s Fashion Row in New York, as an unexpected exchange between the supermodel and the Vogue editor-in-chief grabbed attention.
The event, an unofficial prelude to New York Fashion Week, began with Wintour taking a light jab at Campbell’s well-known habit of arriving late. “I am a very punctual person, and I have the honor of presenting tonight to someone who is often late,” Wintour said, subtly referencing Naomi’s tardiness as she introduced the model, who was being honored with the Fashion Icon Award.
Despite the remark, Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Samira Nasr took over the introduction for Naomi’s award, leaving Wintour to attend to other commitments.
Naomi’s response was equally memorable. “Yes, Naomi’s always late, but I believe in my higher power, and I want to thank my higher power for having me here,” she said, before throwing a light dig back at Anna, referring to her as “the other lady.” Naomi continued, “It wasn’t my choice to have the other lady. I’d much rather have this,” pointing to Nasr, which left the audience in shock.
Reactions From Fans And Naomi’s Appreciation
Social media was quick to react. One fan called the moment “shady,” while another humorously remarked, “The Devil might wear Prada, but Naomi wears whatever she wants, whenever she wants.” Another person commented, “Naomi is a Gemini, we match anybody’s energy. We don’t care!!”
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The exchange also garnered a more introspective reaction from fans who noted that despite the tension, Naomi still thanked Wintour, saying, “We must still thank Anna Wintour, as she did take the time to come here and give me the award even though I wasn’t here.”
Naomi acknowledged Anna’s pivotal role in her career, recalling their first meeting in 1987 at British Vogue, where Anna took a chance on her. “Thank you, Anna Wintour, for your influence and support in pushing fashion forward,” she said, expressing gratitude for Anna’s enduring impact.
The Evolution Of Fashion Icons And Diversity
Samira Nasr’s introduction of Naomi came with its own reflections on the state of the fashion industry. As a Black editor at Harper’s Bazaar, Nasr emphasized the importance of representation, saying, “Who gets to participate in the process to document it for future generations so they know we were here?”
Naomi, often hailed for her influence as a muse to designers like Marc Jacobs and Virgil Abloh, has been recognized for using her platform to highlight inequality and injustice in the fashion industry.
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Wintour herself praised Naomi’s courage for speaking out early in her career, acknowledging that Naomi’s boldness “has benefited the entire fashion industry.” In addition to her contributions to fashion, Naomi is also a devoted mother and a champion for global causes, including funding AIDS research.
Naomi Campbell’s Legacy And Call To Action
In her speech, Naomi reflected on her journey in fashion, paying tribute to trailblazers such as Bethann Hardison, Iman, and Beverly Johnson, who helped guide her in the early stages of her career. She shared the lessons learned from her mother and grandmother about perseverance and hard work, thanking them and dedicating the award to her two daughters.
Beyond the accolades, Naomi used her platform to call for action in the fashion industry, advocating for greater representation not just in advertising and on runways but in decision-making roles. “It’s about who is controlling the narrative, where we read it and watch it,” she said, underscoring the importance of diversity in all facets of the industry, from creative teams to boardrooms.
Naomi expressed her passion for nurturing emerging talent, sharing how she spends her time traveling and discovering new creatives. “I’ve been doing this long enough that I don’t need to do Naomi anymore. Do you know what I mean?” she asked, suggesting that her focus has shifted from her personal career to empowering others.
As she concluded her speech, Naomi reminded the audience of the ongoing fight for equality within the fashion industry. “The fight for equality and representation in fashion is ongoing,” she said, reaffirming her commitment to this cause. “I, for one, am not going to slow down until we are equally represented across the world — inside out.”
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Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com