Paloma Elsesser is the third of Vogue’s four January 2021 cover stars. The curve model posed in gorgeous gowns for the cover story, which was shot by famed photographer Annie Leibovitz.
“Not every part of fashion needs to focus on politics and reality – this isn’t CNN – but ultimately, we all have a level of responsibility.”
Paloma made many important statements during her interview that were empowering to hear. She discussed what visibility means for herself and others, saying, “When a size 14 person like myself says no to doing a show, they may not put anyone larger in that show – therefore that sample doesn’t go into the editorial season; other girls my size don’t get shot in looks that aren’t lingerie or a jacket; there’s a whole cycle happening. My participation isn’t just about me.” She continued to talk about the fashion industry’s cultural and societal responsibility: “Not every part of fashion needs to focus on politics and reality – this isn’t CNN – but ultimately, we all have a level of responsibility.”
Coach’s creative director, Stuart Vevers, also explained how Elsesser embodies a new generation of models in the cover story. “For a big chunk of my time in fashion, the industry seemed to celebrate a cold and emotionless, blank-stare type of modeling. Thankfully, what has returned is the idea that a model should convey personality, warmth, and a sense of an interior life – the type of look that draws you in and makes you stop scrolling. She’s a very genuine person, and that’s something you feel instantly,” Vevers stated for the interview.
Paloma also talked about the impact that models like Crystal Renn and Sophie Dahl had on her career, saying, “I felt like they had this inherent power and sexuality that I didn’t feel in myself. I wasn’t tall enough or thin enough, and I wasn’t the right kind of plus. I was this chubby weird brown girl from L.A., just figuring things out.”
Keep reading to see the gorgeous cover story shoot.
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