A.L.T, From A To Z

Legendary fashion editorAndrLeon Talley has had a truly unique life in the international fashion world, and has left his mark as a pioneer in fashion and its slow move towards diversity

- Daniel Geldenhuys

The iconic documentary The September Issue would be a far more serious film if it weren’t for André Leon Talley. He’s the comic relief – a larger-than life character with the type of pantomime persona that thrives in the fashion world. ‘It’s a famine of beauty,’ André proclaims to a nodding Vera Wang at a disappointing New York Fashion Week. ‘My eyes are starving for beauty!’

Eight years later, André finally has his own documentary. The Gospel According to André not only tells a more rounded life story of the fabulous Vogue editor at large, but gives him the opportunity to elaborate on his personal experiences in his own voice. When André speaks, people listen. His theatrical vocals project from a colossal presence – 1.98m tall, broad-shouldered and unmistakable in his signature printed caftans.

If André’s appearance announces a promise of intrigue, it’s a promise well kept. As a black man born into segregated United States, his career trajectory is not only extraordinary – it’s truly unique. His success was never predetermined, but born of his exceptional knowledge and passion, with a good dose of charisma to back it all up.