Chloe Malle New Head at American Vogue, Talks About Family Ties

Chloe Malle has been named the new Head of Editorial Content at American Vogue. She is the daughter of famous parents and calls herself a 'proud nepo baby'. Anna Wintour, who led the magazine for many years, has chosen Malle and will now guide her in a new role.
By Newsroom | Fashion, Media |

A recent shift in leadership at American Vogue has brought Chloe Malle to the forefront as the new Head of Editorial Content. Her appointment, following Anna Wintour's long tenure, has coincided with a public discussion surrounding her family background and its connection to nepotism, a term she has openly embraced. This transition is unfolding within the established framework of the fashion industry, where legacy and influence are often scrutinized.

The appointment of Chloe Malle as the new U.S. Head of Editorial Content for American Vogue has generated significant attention. Malle, daughter of acclaimed actress Candice Bergen and filmmaker Louis Malle, has publicly acknowledged her family ties, identifying herself as a "proud nepo baby." This self-appellation has fueled commentary and debate, particularly within fashion circles and among the broader public. Wintour, while stepping down as Editor-in-Chief, remains involved as Chief Content Officer and Global Editorial Director at Condé Nast, positioning herself as a mentor to Malle.

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New Vogue Editor Chloe Malle Speaks On 'Nepo Baby' Criticism - 1

Editorial Shift and Industry Reaction

The change in leadership at American Vogue signifies a new chapter for the publication. Anna Wintour, who helmed the magazine for nearly four decades, has transitioned to a broader content strategy role. Her selection of Chloe Malle as her successor has been met with varied reactions, from support for Malle's vision to criticism rooted in perceptions of inherited advantage.

  • Wintour's Endorsement: Anna Wintour has publicly supported Malle, emphasizing her "clearest vision and the most original ideas" during the interview process. Wintour noted Malle's ability to balance Vogue's historical identity with future direction, stating she looks forward to Malle leading the publication in new directions.

  • Malle's Perspective: Chloe Malle has expressed excitement about her new role, seeing it as an opportunity to shape Vogue, a publication that has already influenced her. She has also stated that having a prominent family impetus her to work harder to prove her own merit.

  • Industry Discourse: The term "nepo baby," referring to individuals perceived to have gained advantages through family connections, has become central to the discussion surrounding Malle's appointment. This has led to varying opinions on whether her position is a result of her background or her professional capabilities.

Examining the "Nepo Baby" Label

Chloe Malle's open acceptance of the "nepo baby" label has sparked conversations about privilege and meritocracy within industries like fashion. Her mother, Candice Bergen, is an Oscar-nominated actress, and her father, Louis Malle, was a celebrated director. Malle herself is a graduate of Brown University and has prior experience at Vogue, including editing several books associated with the magazine.

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New Vogue Editor Chloe Malle Speaks On 'Nepo Baby' Criticism - 2

"I am so excited to continue working with her, as her mentor but also as her student, while she leads us and our audiences where we’ve never been before.” - Anna Wintour, quoted in multiple reports.

Malle has articulated a desire to prove herself beyond her family's legacy. She has stated it has been a goal of hers "to prove that I’m more than Candice Bergen’s daughter, or someone who grew up in Beverly Hills." This sentiment suggests a drive to establish her own professional identity separate from her lineage.

Evidence of Malle's Role and Industry Engagement

Multiple sources confirm Chloe Malle's appointment and her active role within the fashion world.

New Vogue Editor Chloe Malle Speaks On 'Nepo Baby' Criticism - 3

  • Appointment: Malle was confirmed as the new Head of Editorial Content for American Vogue. This is a newly created role, occurring as Anna Wintour steps down from her Editor-in-Chief position.

  • Experience: Malle has a documented history of working closely with Anna Wintour and has been described as one of Vogue's "secret weapons" for tracking fashion trends. She has also edited several books, including "Vogue Living: City, Country, Coast."

  • High-Profile Assignments: Malle's profile at the magazine increased following her interview with Lauren Sánchez for a Vogue cover, which preceded Sánchez's wedding to Jeff Bezos. This assignment drew attention and some backlash.

Expert Perspectives on Leadership and Legacy

The transition at Vogue brings to light broader discussions about leadership in creative fields and the perception of individuals with prominent family backgrounds.

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"We saw a lot of amazing, amazing candidates, and Chloe consistently came back with the clearest vision and the most original ideas and understanding of what a Vogue in—well, I don’t think we can talk about five, 10 years anymore—in two years is going to look like.” - Anna Wintour, speaking to The New Yorker.

Wintour's defense of Malle highlights a belief in her vision and strategic thinking. This perspective contrasts with the criticism that Malle's position might be more directly tied to her familial connections, a notion that Malle herself has addressed by embracing the "nepo baby" label while simultaneously asserting her ambition.

New Vogue Editor Chloe Malle Speaks On 'Nepo Baby' Criticism - 4

Conclusion and Future Implications

Chloe Malle's assumption of the Head of Editorial Content role at American Vogue marks a significant moment for the publication. Her embrace of the "nepo baby" label, coupled with Anna Wintour's strong endorsement, presents a complex narrative about merit, privilege, and leadership in the fashion industry.

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The immediate future will likely involve observing Malle's editorial direction and her ability to navigate the public discourse surrounding her appointment. Her previous work and stated aspirations suggest a commitment to her role, while the ongoing scrutiny will test the perception of her professional standing versus her inherited advantages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Chloe Malle?
Chloe Malle is the new Head of Editorial Content at American Vogue. She is the daughter of actress Candice Bergen and filmmaker Louis Malle.
Q: What is a 'nepo baby'?
A 'nepo baby' is someone who has a famous parent or family that may have helped them get a job. Chloe Malle says she is a proud 'nepo baby'.
Q: Why is Anna Wintour important?
Anna Wintour was the main leader at Vogue for almost 40 years. She has now moved to a different job and is helping Chloe Malle.
Q: Did Anna Wintour choose Chloe Malle?
Yes, Anna Wintour chose Chloe Malle. Wintour said Malle had the best ideas and vision for Vogue's future.
Q: How does Chloe Malle feel about her family's fame?
Chloe Malle says her family's name makes her want to work harder to prove herself. She wants to be known for her own work.