In the world of fashion, the September issue is considered the pinnacle of a publication’s editorial calendar. It sets the tone for the season ahead, offering readers a glimpse into the trends, designs, and inspirations that will dominate runways and wardrobes. This year, Vogue France pulled out all the stops, surprising the fashion community with a dynamic and visually striking September 2024 cover featuring Vivienne Rohner, captured by legendary photographer Steven Meisel.
Meisel, who is often associated with Vogue covers in the UK and Italy, lent his masterful lens to the French edition, a rarity that only heightens the significance of this collaboration. Together with Rohner, a model whose career is rapidly ascending, Meisel has created a cover that is more than just an image—it is a work of art that draws inspiration from the sensual and iconic French film Emmanuelle.
The pairing of Meisel and Rohner for this monumental cover shoot is nothing short of perfection. Steven Meisel is a name synonymous with fashion photography. Known for his transformative ability to shape the image of models and celebrities, he has long been considered one of the most influential photographers in the industry. His previous work with Vogue Italia and Vogue UK has produced some of the most memorable and iconic fashion moments of the last few decades, making his foray into the Vogue France arena even more exciting.
Vivienne Rohner, on the other hand, is a model who has been steadily rising in the ranks of the fashion world. Her ethereal beauty and striking features have caught the attention of designers and photographers alike. Rohner’s ability to embody the essence of high fashion while maintaining a unique and captivating presence has made her a sought-after talent in the industry. Teaming up with Meisel for the September cover of Vogue France is undoubtedly a milestone in her career, further solidifying her status as one of fashion’s brightest stars.
The cover shoot draws inspiration from the 1974 French erotic film Emmanuelle, directed by Just Jaeckin. The film, which became a cult classic, is known for its sensuality, allure, and aesthetic beauty—qualities that have clearly influenced the visuals of this September issue. Emmanuelle is often regarded as a film that pushed boundaries in its depiction of eroticism, and its influence on the fashion shoot adds an element of daring sophistication.
In the cover image, Vivienne Rohner embodies the spirit of Emmanuelle, exuding an ethereal, otherworldly beauty that is both alluring and enigmatic. Her styling, curated by the talented Marie-Amelie Sauvé, perfectly complements the theme, with a particular emphasis on high fashion elegance and sensuality. The outfit she wears is a piece from Chemena Kamali’s Fall 2024 collection for Chloé, an elegant creation that evokes a sense of timeless sophistication while remaining fresh and modern.
The use of lighting, textures, and styling in the shoot transforms the image into something that feels cinematic, like a still from a film. Meisel’s photographic approach has always been deeply cinematic, and his work on this cover is no different. Every detail, from Rohner’s expression to the way the light hits her features, is meticulously crafted to evoke emotion and create an atmosphere that is both captivating and intimate.
Vivienne Rohner’s journey to the top of the fashion world has been nothing short of remarkable. Born with striking beauty and an innate sense of elegance, she quickly caught the attention of some of the industry’s most influential figures. Her modeling career took off when she began appearing in high-profile runway shows, and she soon found herself in demand by major fashion houses and publications.
Rohner’s versatility as a model has been one of her greatest assets. Whether she’s walking in a haute couture show or posing for an editorial, she has the ability to adapt to different styles and concepts effortlessly. Her collaboration with Steven Meisel for Vogue France is the latest in a series of impressive career moves that have cemented her place as one of the most promising models of her generation.
In addition to her modeling work, Rohner has been praised for her professionalism and dedication to her craft. She approaches every shoot and runway appearance with the same level of focus and precision, and it’s this work ethic that has earned her the respect of designers, photographers, and fellow models alike.
Steven Meisel’s contribution to fashion photography cannot be overstated. His ability to create compelling narratives through his images has made him one of the most sought-after photographers in the world. Meisel’s work has always pushed the boundaries of what fashion photography can be, blending elements of art, culture, and history to create visually stunning images that stand the test of time.
His collaboration with Vogue France for the September 2024 cover is yet another example of his genius. By drawing inspiration from a film like Emmanuelle, Meisel has once again demonstrated his ability to infuse his work with cultural significance while maintaining the highest standards of fashion photography.
Chemena Kamali’s Fall 2024 collection for Chloé plays a pivotal role in the overall aesthetic of the cover shoot. Kamali, known for her ability to blend femininity with strength, has created a collection that is both elegant and empowering. The outfit worn by Vivienne Rohner on the cover is a prime example of this balance, with its delicate design and bold presence.
Kamali’s vision for Chloé has been to create clothing that speaks to the modern woman—someone who is confident, sophisticated, and unafraid to embrace her individuality. The inclusion of her design in the Vogue France September issue is a testament to her growing influence in the fashion industry, and it aligns perfectly with the themes of allure and sensuality that permeate the shoot.
The September 2024 cover of Vogue France is more than just a beautiful image—it’s a moment that captures the essence of fashion as an art form. With Steven Meisel behind the camera, Vivienne Rohner as the captivating subject, and Chemena Kamali’s designs providing the perfect wardrobe, this issue is destined to be remembered as one of the most significant covers of the year.
The collaboration between Meisel and Rohner, along with the inspiration drawn from Emmanuelle, has resulted in a cover that feels both timeless and contemporary. It’s a celebration of beauty, fashion, and cinema, all rolled into one unforgettable image. For Vogue France, this issue represents a bold step forward, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on readers and the fashion community at large.
