Franca

Having not really researched into Franca Sozzani and not followed Italian Vogue I found this documentary very interesting and I learnt a lot about her life and the way she worked during her time as editor-in-chief of the magazine. 

While watching the film made by her son, it was clear to see how strong willed, passionate and humble Franca was. Her work although sometimes controversial was powerful and she gave Italian Vogue a strong voice which was heard across the world. 

To me the thing that stood out the most was her ability and willingness to confront modern issues in society and bring them to light in her magazines. 

Her infamous ‘Makeover Madness’ cover shot by Steven Meisel in 2005 caused everyone to stop and question the popularity and obsession of plastic surgery. The photos were graphic and shocking making people re-think their connection with cosmetic procedures. 

Franca was also the first editor to create a issue of Vogue featuring all black models. ‘A Black Issue’ published in 2008 gave black women and men everywhere a powerful voice and a chance to shine. This issue was extremely well received and has been a huge stepping stone for many black models and an inspiration to the industry, exposing the need for black models to be represented in an often white dominated industry. 

However, my favourite issue of Italian Vogue would have to be the 2010 August issue focusing on the Bp oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Never one to shy away from controversial subjects, Franca created this issue to show “Fashion isn’t really about clothes-it’s about life,” This issue split opinion, many saying that the photos were unnecessary and even glamourising the disaster. To me however I see this issue as very powerful. Franca’s ability to talk about the issue and give the problem more exspore really inspires me. She felt it was necessary for people to see how fashion links with everything and that the disaster needed to be spoken about and discussed in as many ways as possible. 

After watching the film I have a whole new appreciation for Franca and her work and feel that as an editor of any magazine, it is a necessity that you are able to voice your true passions and start discussions which you feel everyone should sit up and listen to.