As the world eagerly anticipates the unveiling of British Vogue’s September issue, guest editor Meghan Markle has opened up about her experience collaborating with the magazine’s visionary editor-in-chief, Edward Enninful. In a heartfelt letter penned for readers, the Duchess of Sussex, who was five months pregnant with her son Archie Harrison at the start of this journey, shares the deeply personal and transformative moments of this adventure.
A Special Chapter in Meghan’s Life
Meghan writes with a warmth that captures the essence of motherhood and collaboration. She reveals, “I was about five months pregnant when this process began, and by the time you hold this issue in your hands, my husband and I will be holding our three-month-old baby boy in ours.” This issue is more than just a magazine; it's a reflection of her personal growth, especially during such a pivotal time in her life. “It’s a very special time for me personally, on so many levels,” she continues. “Working with Edward and his team, both during my pregnancy and my maternity leave, has played no small part in that joy — it has been a privilege to be welcomed and supported by this amazing team.”
The Serendipitous Meeting That Changed Everything
In her letter, Meghan shares that her initial meeting with Edward was supposed to focus on a collaboration for her women-focused patronage, Smart Works. However, their conversation quickly evolved into something much bigger. “What evolved over the next hour was a promising pow wow of two like-minded thinkers, who have much in common, including our love of writing,” she writes. Over a steaming cup of mint tea, they brainstormed ways to shine light in a world often filled with darkness. “Lofty? Of course. Worth it? Without question,” Meghan reflects.
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As their meeting drew to a close, the former Suits actress and British fashion stylist found themselves philosophizing about how to communicate their shared understanding of the world. They explored the lens through which they see life and how to shift from frustration to optimism. It was during this pivotal moment that Meghan took a leap of faith. “So I asked the question. Actually, I typed and deleted the question several times until I built up the courage to ask the question in question,” she explained. Finally, she asked Edward if she could guest-edit the September issue. “‘Edward … instead of doing the cover, would you be open to me guest-editing your September issue?’”
Edward’s Response and the Vision for Change
Despite knowing the immense importance of the September issue for the fashion industry, Meghan was nervous to ask Edward to take a chance on her. “I am also a little nervous to be boldly asking the editor-in-chief, whom I’d only just met, to take a chance on me,” she thought. Luckily, her confidence paid off, and Edward enthusiastically responded, “Yes! I would love for you to be my guest editor.”
This pivotal moment solidified the theme of the issue, titled Forces of Change. “Sitting on my sofa at home, two dogs nestled across me, I quietly celebrated when the words appeared on my screen,” Meghan reminisces. The September issue of British Vogue is set to highlight brilliant female changemakers reshaping society in radical and positive ways. It’s available on digital download and on newsstands starting Friday, August 2, so get ready to dive into this inspiring collection.
