Two of entertainment's biggest stars put their stage and screen commitments on hold this Thursday to front a major new fashion campaign. Kylie Minogue and Ruth Wilson have been unveiled as the faces of the latest campaign for British label JW Anderson, promoting its forthcoming autumn-winter collection.
A Star-Studded Photoshoot
The Australian pop icon, 57, and the acclaimed British actress, 44, were joined by actor Daryl McCormack and model Mona Tougaard for a tasteful promotional shoot. In a series of striking images, Minogue, a long-time advocate of the brand, showcases several key pieces. One shot captures her in a distinctive netted blue dress adorned with embroidered cars, while another sees her command attention in a sleeveless red cardigan paired with a sheer lace miniskirt.
Ruth Wilson, best known for her starring role in the TV drama Luther, also makes a powerful impression. She models a vibrant tiered evening dress with patent black heels, and later, a pair of on-trend oversized trousers accompanied by a crisp white dress shirt.
The Designer's Remarkable Ascent
The campaign arrives at a pivotal moment for the label's founder, Jonathan Anderson. Last June, the Northern Irish designer was unveiled as the new creative director of the legendary French house Christian Dior. He takes over from Maria Grazia Chiuri and Kim Jones, marking a significant new chapter for the historic brand.
Anderson, who grew up in Magherafelt, County Derry as the eldest son of rugby union legend Willie Anderson and teacher Heather Buckley, has charted an unconventional path to the pinnacle of fashion. In a past interview, he admitted to being a "demanding" child who was "constantly changing" his mind, favouring theatre and arts over sports.
From Amateur Plays to Global Recognition
Far from the amateur plays he staged with his siblings, Anderson's ambition led him to found JW Anderson and achieve critical acclaim. His resume includes designing Rihanna's celebrated Super Bowl ensemble and an impressive 11-year tenure creatively leading luxury brand Loewe, all while maintaining his own label. JW Anderson has also enjoyed a successful ongoing collaboration with retail giant UNIQLO since 2017.
Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH, emphasised Anderson's unique talent, stating: "Jonathan Anderson is one of the greatest creative talents of his generation. His incomparable artistic signature will be a crucial asset in writing the next chapter of the history of the House of Dior." This sentiment is underscored by Anderson recently winning the Designer of the Year award at the 2024 Fashion Awards for the second consecutive year.
With a major campaign featuring A-list talent and his new role at Dior, Jonathan Anderson's unique vision is set to define the next era for two of fashion's most watched houses.