Anna Wintour, Vogue’s iconic editor-in-chief for 37 years, is reportedly in final negotiations to appoint Chloe Malle—daughter of actress Candice Bergen—as her successor to lead the magazine’s editorial content. According to multiple sources, Malle has emerged as the frontrunner among several candidates and could assume the role ahead of New York Fashion Week in September.
Chloe Malle, 39, brings significant experience to the position as the current editor of Vogue.com, where she’s worked for over 14 years. Her notable recent work includes conducting Vogue’s high-profile interview with Lauren Sánchez prior to Sánchez’s wedding to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. As the daughter of Emmy-winning actress Candice Bergen and late French filmmaker Louis Malle, she represents a new generation of leadership at the fashion publication.
The transition plan follows Wintour’s June 2025 announcement that she would step down from her U.S. editor-in-chief role while retaining her position as Condé Nast’s global editorial director and chief content officer. Industry insiders describe Malle as a ‘favorite of staff’ who has advanced through rigorous interview rounds. Other candidates like Instagram’s fashion director Eva Chen and W Magazine’s Sara Moonves are no longer under consideration.
This leadership change marks a pivotal moment for Vogue, which Wintour has shaped into a cultural institution since 1988. The timing aligns strategically with New York Fashion Week (September 11-16), when the appointment is expected to be formally announced. The decision carries significant weight in the fashion industry, where Vogue sets global trends and wields considerable influence.
Malle’s potential promotion reflects a shift toward digital-native leadership, given her extensive background with Vogue’s online operations. It also continues the tradition of high-profile editorial appointments at Condé Nast, though some observers note the ‘nepo baby’ dynamic given her famous parentage. However, colleagues emphasize her qualifications stem from demonstrated editorial skill rather than familial connections.
The transition comes amid broader transformations in fashion media, where traditional print publications increasingly prioritize digital content and social media engagement. Should Malle assume the role, her immediate challenges will include navigating post-pandemic fashion economics, addressing industry sustainability concerns, and maintaining Vogue’s relevance among younger audiences.
Industry analysts will watch how Malle potentially redefines Vogue’s voice while honoring its legacy. Her appointment could signal greater integration between print and digital operations, reflecting Condé Nast’s ongoing restructuring. The fashion world awaits confirmation during Fashion Week, which remains Vogue’s most important annual event.
For Wintour, this completes a carefully managed succession plan that allows her to focus on global strategy while mentoring new leadership. Her continued oversight ensures institutional knowledge transfer while enabling fresh perspectives at Vogue’s helm—a balance crucial for the publication’s future.
