Julia Roberts Makes a Bold Entrance in New Fashion Venture
Julia Roberts made headlines this week as she graced the cover of a new fashion magazine, marking a significant moment in her career. Known for her iconic roles in “Pretty Woman” and “Notting Hill,” Roberts was photographed wearing a blazer by Phoebe Philo, capturing the essence of a classic movie star. However, this time, the cover wasn’t from one of the usual high-profile publications like Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar. Instead, it was Edward Enniful, a former Conde Nast editor, who secured Roberts for the first issue of his new venture, EE72.
Enniful, who previously served as the editor of British Vogue, has long been seen as a potential successor to Anna Wintour. His tenure at British Vogue saw the publication rise in prominence, with notable collaborations with top talent such as Adele and Billie Eilish. However, in 2023, he left after what was described as a power struggle with Wintour. Now, Enniful is back in the spotlight with EE72, a publication that aims to challenge the traditional fashion media landscape.
The Vision Behind EE72
EE72 is not just another fashion magazine; it represents a bold new direction in the industry. The publication will be released quarterly in print and will have a daily online platform. Enniful spoke about his motivations for launching the venture, stating that he wanted to create something away from the traditional publishing structure. He emphasized the importance of empathy and representation in his work, aiming to provide a platform where all voices are welcome.
The first issue of EE72 will be ad-free, focusing on creativity and storytelling. Enniful explained that the goal is to present a journey through the eyes of the subjects featured, highlighting their inspirations and contributions to their industries. This approach aligns with his belief in the intersection of beauty, fashion, and culture.
Landing Julia Roberts
Securing Julia Roberts for the first cover was no small feat. Enniful shared that he had always admired Roberts and had approached her multiple times during his time at British Vogue. However, she was known for being low-key and rarely agreed to covers. When he reached out for his new venture, she surprisingly agreed, leading to a beautiful collaboration. Enniful described Roberts as a modern woman who is unfiltered, timeless, and empowering to other women.
The Role of Hollywood in Fashion
Hollywood figures play a significant role in the fashion editorial world, often serving as muses or subjects. Enniful highlighted that culture is at the heart of his work, and he believes that film, music, architecture, and food are essential elements of any publication. For the first issue of EE72, he has already lined up notable names such as Oprah, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Luca Guadagnino.
A Unique Approach to Media
Enniful’s vision for EE72 includes three pillars: a digital platform, a quarterly print publication, and a creative consulting arm. He emphasized the importance of print, despite the common belief that it is dead. Drawing parallels to the impact of the Kindle on the book market, he believes that print can still thrive when done right. The print edition will focus on seasonal themes and storytelling, while the digital platform will serve as an immersive space for content, commerce, and community.
Looking Ahead
Enniful also addressed the changing landscape of the media industry, noting that many emerging platforms prioritize agility. However, he chose to start from scratch, believing that creating something new allows for greater flexibility and innovation. His decision to build from the ground up reflects his commitment to freedom and creativity.
As EE72 prepares to launch, it promises to be a unique blend of fashion, culture, and storytelling. With a strong lineup of contributors and a clear vision, the publication is set to make a lasting impact on the industry.
