Gigi Hadid in ‘The World’s Most Connected Supermodel’ by Steven Meisel for W Magazine

Photographer: Steven Meisel. Model(s): Gigi Hadid. Source: W Magazine. Stylist: Edward Enninful. Makeup: Pat McGrath. Hair: Guido Palau.

Posted Aug 04, 2015

Gigi Hadid ventures into the Valley of the Dolls by Steven Meisel for W Magazine, September 2015. To find inside yourself the ability to push past the insignificant and reach for something more, that is pure passion. And, while I can’t speak for 5 million Instagram viewers (as if that really matters), I do know that truth lies in the ability to hold one person’s attention. Offering a fresh perspective in a sea of uninspired or pushing someone toward their own artistic endeavors, that is the definition of brave. In an industry ripe with realizations, to pray at the alter of numbers is tantamount to treason. I know it’s tempting to say that Gigi is the ‘Cindy‘ of her day, however, Supermodel status can’t be gauged by the digital age. The verbiage is underrated and the intent is overblown. While I understand the lure of logistics, following numbers is a question of much ado about nothing. In this Meisel masterpiece we watch as a young girl moves down the pathway to womanhood. Stylist, Edward Enninful, embraces the feel of French Chic with exquisite looks by Angela Friedman, Burberry, Cadolle, D&G, Dsquared2, Fendi Gucci, La Perla, Miu Miu, Prada, Tabula Rasa & Valentino. Touched by the raw, emotive power of the 60’s, stars like Sharon Tate cemented our obsession with the culture of couture. Fashion is less an accessory of the body than an extension of faith. Like a firefly floating through the night to catch that kind of freedom is an act of pure delight. Bringing forth the beauty of Bardot, (Makeup Artist) Pat McGrath channels the iconic imagery of the era through the features of her face. A liquid line races over the lid to capture the infamous cat-eye look in revved-up reverie. The power of faux lashes erupt making you feel like she’s peering through the page. Lit from within, the skin glow’s as if from another time. Soft peach lips speak with subtlety as shades ooze over the picture. Hairstylist, Guido Palau, bumps thing up with tresses teased into a fury of fantasy then falling in a cascade of glory. Make no mistake, the best models out there are some of the most creative souls working today. So we are forced to make a stand. To tell the world, while we appreciate/accept the Instagraming obsession we don’t live by it. It’s tempting to think that there’s another group of 90’s Freedom Fighters, but they were an anomaly. And while these new girls – may or may not – be the next (long-term) big thing, let’s just play it out. I’m a huge fan of Gigi’s (just look at my site), but, let’s remember our current heroes, Anya Rubik, Lara Stone, Kate Moss, Lindsey Wixson, Toni Garrn, Daria Warborwy, to name a few. And, never forget those fearsome felines – Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, Amber Valletta, Tatjana Patitz…