Vogue magazine has unveiled its definitive list of ten remarkable women who are transforming the landscape of British cool, marking a significant shift from the celebrity-dominated 'It girl' culture of previous decades.
The New Faces of British Influence
While iconic figures like Twiggy, Kate Moss, and Alexa Chung defined their respective eras with unmistakable star power, Vogue's December issue celebrates a new generation of trendsetters with what the fashion bible describes as a more subtle celebrity status. These ten socialites are redefining contemporary cool through their diverse creative pursuits and authentic personal styles.
The list includes 22-year-old Doa Barney, daughter of musical legend Björk and artist Matthew Barney, who has already made her mark both on screen and runway. Despite her famous parentage, Doa offers a nuanced perspective on nepotism, telling the Sydney Morning Herald: "Financially, sure, it can get you super far, but in terms of one's own personal journey... it doesn't help you very much."
Multitalented Trailblazers
Manchester-born model Libby Bennett, at just 20 years old, represents the youngest member of this exclusive group. Having walked for fashion houses including McQueen and Chanel while maintaining her parallel passion for drumming, Libby embodies the multifaceted nature of today's It girl. "I was never the popular kid in school, which I think is common among models," she revealed to Vogue, highlighting her unexpected path to fashion success.
East London's Rose Gray, the 28-year-old singer-songwriter engaged to actor Harris Dickinson, brings musical credentials to the list. Fresh from releasing her album 'Louder, Please' and winning MTV Push UK & IRE, Rose represents Britain's bright musical future while maintaining her down-to-earth connections to London's underground club scene.
Sydney Lima, a Soho native who has collaborated with luxury brands including Dolce & Gabbana and Prada, demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit of the new guard. Despite now heading media at indie magazine NAIMA and founding her clothing brand Rich Parents, Sydney comes from humble beginnings, telling the Evening Standard that her parents "aren't rich or famous."
Redefining Cool for a New Generation
The list showcases remarkable diversity in both background and achievement. Osman Ahmed, an experienced writer and editor from Mile End, brings trans representation and fashion expertise, while Lea Ogunlami has transitioned from music video commissioner to celebrated presenter and founder of interview series RawGabbit.
London's music scene is well represented by DJs Marissa Malik (stage name Manuka Honey), co-founder of famous queer night SUZIO, and Mina Galán, whose Club Stamina parties have captivated London's ravers. Reenie, the non-binary DJ currently touring Australia, and photographer Iris Luz, who creates music videos for artists like PinkPantheress, complete the musical contingent.
What unites these ten women is their rejection of traditional celebrity pathways and their commitment to authentic self-expression. As Lea Ogunlami told Vogue, the modern It girl isn't about superiority but rather "someone who can have a chat and a laugh and who can smile." This new definition of cool prioritises genuine talent, diverse creative pursuits, and community impact over mere fame, signalling an exciting evolution in British cultural influence.
