Carine Roitfeld Quits Vogue Paris

I have no real information but I will add details as available. I thought I should give us space to begin grieving and speculating so feel free to comment with your theories as to why Carine Roitfeld is leaving Vogue Paris. What could possibly be better?! Who could ever take her place?!

Carine Roitfeld photograph © Condé Nast and Hedi Slimane. All Rights Reserved. Vogue Paris cover image featuring Carine Roitfeld created by Kellina de Boer.

Update on vendredi 17 décembre 2010 by kellina

Here is the statement issued by Condé Nast regarding Carine Roitfeld's departure from Vogue Paris in both French and English:

Après 10 années passées à la rédaction en chef de Vogue Paris, Carine Roitfeld décide de quitter le magazine. Son départ sera effectif dans quelques semaines. Carine Roitfeld souhaite se consacrer à des projets personnels qui lui tiennent à cœur. Sous son impulsion, Vogue Paris est devenu une référence mondiale et un magazine incontournable. Carine Roitfeld a su donner au magazine une dimension nouvelle, avec un regard audacieux en collaboration avec les plus grands photographes du monde. Ces 10 années se sont traduites par une croissance constante des performances tant en diffusion qu’en publicité de Vogue Paris. « Carine a marqué l’histoire du Vogue Paris grâce à son incroyable talent de styliste et de rédactrice en chef. Elle va nous manquer » déclare Jonathan Newhouse, Président de Condé Nast International. « Je regrette bien sur la décision de Carine, même si je la comprends. Une page se tourne et une nouvelle étape commence pour cette marque solide, puissante et sûre de ses valeurs » déclare Xavier Romatet, Président de Condé Nast France.

After ten years as editor-in-chief of Vogue Paris, Carine Roitfeld has decided to quit the magazine. Her departure will take effect in a few weeks. Carine Roitfeld wants to dedicate herself to personal projects that are close to her heart. Under her leadership, Vogue Paris has become a worldwide reference and an inescapable magazine. Carine Roitfeld has given the magazine a new dimension, with an audacious look in collaboration with the best photographers in the world. These ten years have translated into constant improvement in both performance and advertising revenues at Vogue Paris. "Carine has graced the history of Vogue Paris with her incredible talent as a stylist and editor. She will be missed," said Jonathan Newhouse, president of Condé Nast International. "I regret the decision by Carine, although I understand it. A page turns and a new stage begins for this brand, strong, powerful, and sure of its values," said Xavier Romatet, president of Condé Nast France.

Text © 2010 Condé Nast. All Rights Reserved.

Update on samedi 18 décembre 2010 by kellina

Visit fashionologie for a lovely ode to Carine Roitfeld highlighting 100 of her influential Vogue Paris images.

Update on samedi 18 décembre 2010 by kellina

Based on his comments to The New York Times, it seems that a collaboration with Tom Ford is not the impetus behind Carine Roitfeld's decision to leave Vogue Paris:

“Carine and I have no plans to work together at the moment, and it is nothing that we have even discussed, but of course I think she is brilliant and we are close friends so who knows about the future.”

Update on samedi 18 décembre 2010 by kellina

Carine Roitfeld told The New York Times that she expects the March issue of Vogue Paris to be her last, happy birthday to me! But you need a plan, Carine...

"I had so much freedom to do everything I wanted. I think I did a good job. When everything is good, maybe I think it's the time to do something else. I have no plan at all."

Update on samedi 18 décembre 2010 by kellina

According to Trendland, Carine Roitfeld may have been fired by Condé Nast:

"Our sources have revealed that she was fired as a cause of not complying with a request from LVMH group for the December issue. Apparently LVMH wanted a full issue takeover for December but Carine preferred collaborating with friend and long time collaborator Tom Ford. So it seems LVMH boss gave Condé Nast boss a call and an ultimatum, her or us…"

Update on lundi 20 décembre 2010 by kellina

I think this confirms that the LVMH rumor is false (or perhaps a snow job):

Next week Carine Roitfeld will be featured on Nowness.com, a web site owned by LVMH, as part of their “12 Days of Christmas" series. Appearing December 27, the piece is titled “Three French Hens” and also includes Josephine de la Baume and Laetitia Crahay. Among other things, Carine will divulge her plan for New Year's Eve. Though of course we are more interested in her plan for the coming year...

Update on lundi 20 décembre 2010 by kellina

My dear friend Milla from the blog Not Just Another Milla has written a beautiful letter of tribute to Carine, "Dear Madame Roitfeld."

Update on mardi 21 décembre 2010 by kellina

My lovely friend Kate from the blog Everyday Glamour pays tribute to Carine in her own witty way... "Carine VS. Anna." Clearly Carine wins...

Update on mardi 21 décembre 2010 by kellina

Thanks to be.com, I think I am beginning to get the picture:

"Rajoutez aux crasses de Carine des divergences de point de vue avec Bernard Arnault, propriétaire de LVMH. Aux dernières nouvelles la carte blanche offerte à Tom Ford sur le dernier numéro de Noël, aucun annonceur du groupe de Bernard Arnault n'y figurait, c'est la goutte d'eau qui a fait déborder le vase. Et évidemment, lorsqu'un poids lourd comme Bernard Arnault menace de retirer ses annonceurs, ça se corse ... Et Carine se retrouve à Pôle Emploi."

Unlike past guest editors of the December/January issue of Vogue Paris, Tom Ford had an agenda — he has a brand new women's clothing line that the general public had virtually never seen prior to this issue! Carine Roitfeld gave him carte blanche (and consequently Condé Nast's money, influence, and distribution) to promote his line on the editorial pages. In my opinion, Carine was neither fired nor quit, they simply made her an offer she could not refuse. Note that this is not a translation but my own interpretation of the events as known. Special thanks to Sophie Tagel for sending me the article.

Comments

[Iñaki]

It seems impossible for anyone to take her place... People are suggesting Emmanuelle Alt or Aliona Doletskaya but I don't see them capable of doing that job... I could, however, see Olivier Lalanne. And a man editor-in-chief would be such a great turn for the fashion-forward magazine!


http://www.soVIPzone.com

xx

[kellina]

Iñaki, I absolutely love your idea! Seeing more of his hotness Olivier Lalanne is about the only thing that could cheer me up at this point. I just asked my beau NOT to renew my Vogue Paris subscription since it will not be the same without Carine. I am in shock.

xx

[Mari]

IN SHOCK! However I am interested to see what she will be doing..Once one leaves do the rest follow her? Emmanuelle?

[oncet]

As long as Julia's still around. There--spoken like a true fashion neanderthal.

I hope this won't derail my growing addiction to IWTBAR.

[kellina]

Great questions, Mari! Additionally, has she given up her position at Vogue Hommes International as well? They only mention VP...

[kellina]

Ha ha, Oncet, at least you are genuine! Julia is a rising star so I expect there will still be lots of news and pictures about her regardless, stay tuned... Personally, I hope her mother begins directing films and casting Julia in the lead!

; )

[Dru]

Knowing what we do of her, I would not be surprised if she'd decided that she wanted to go out on top and that ten years is a nice round figure of time after which she can step down. I'm happy for her, but sad because I would have LOVED to see her edit Vogue Paris's 100th anniversary issue just as she has done their 90th.

I hope Vogue Paris continues being as fabulous as usual. She definitely pulled it to another level this last decade, I think we can agree that whoever does succeed her will have a tough pair of heels to fill!

[SMM]

Carine continues to surprise. I read in interviews that she has said she has 'no plans'. I am wondering however if she might have been lured away by Tom Ford; she has always been an acknowledged muse to him and he just introduced his signature line for women--she and Julia even worked the runway at his behest. The rumor is he is moving into the full-on clothing/lifestyle arena, so maybe that's her next stop. I saw where Testino shot Ford's campaign--reuniting them all would be a bit like 'old times', no?

Thoughts anyone???

[Milla]

Just arrived home in France and am in a state of shock. I cannot believe this. Carine is Vogue Paris. Wow, this is not good news. I cannot even think of about her possible replacement. Forget I Want To Be A Roitfeld, right now, I Want More Information!!

K, how about you and I take over?! Seriously, we could totally pull it off!

Shocked in Paris.

[Ali B.]

I thought about you as soon as I read this! :) I'm sure Carine will go on and do something fabulous, probably consult with a label or perhaps start her own. Maybe she just wants a normal life for a while. I respect a woman who knows what she wants in life!

It will be interesting to see who takes her place...

[Milla]

One thing I will say though is good for her! It was her decision to leave and I simply cannot imagine Vogue Paris without her, but good on her. You know me, I'm all about changing my life and doing what makes me happy, so I respect her decision but it's just so shocking (in true Carine style).

The next issue I review will be without Carine. Wow. Personally, I hope she does some form of collaboration with Mr Ford. That would blow me away!

Yes, I'll probably keeping commenting as things come to me...

[mike]

One thing you can't say about Carine is that she lacks balls! I'm sure she has something up her sleeve. I bet Anna Wintour breathed a sigh of relief when she heard the news.

[Maya]

Oh my God ! I have just read the News and I am in shock! I do not read Paris Vogue, but I like seeing Carine around at fashion shows! She is such an inspiration and icon. I just wish she continues doing something in fashion! It would be perfect when she involves in creating some clothes. Please inform us about everything. : ((((((((((((((

[Julius]

she knew who she had to know,

so now she's doing her sine nobilitate mafia behind the scenes!

greed was good, but pay attention to the shrak$, Roitfe

ps; the most inelegant family of France- and who understands, understands.


yo

[kellina II]

Who will be able to solve this 'brand-new' enigma ?

http://community.nytimes.com/comments/runway.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/17/carine-roitfeld-resigns-from-french-vogue/?permid=18#comment18

Who will be able to ascertain its truth ?

Best,

K.II

[Cupcake]

Shocking! I just got home from Christmas shopping and saw the news! I would find it hard to believe that she would quit without a game plan. I'm going to bet that she reinvents herself in the fashion world as she is far too young and vibrant to retire.
Nevertheless Kellina, je pleure.
Cupcake
xo :(

[Julius]

AS YOU SEE KELLINA

IN ONLY 3 MONTHS OF ME HERE

THE DREAM FINISHED

it's a nice goal, of course

[Gala]

Sigh!!! I read this morning in Business of Fashion and Purple Diary this news. Peccato!!!!

[lara]

OMG it's not possible !!! who take her place ? it's difficult to find a person like her !

She's very talented, clever, and so stylish ....

But it's her choice ! I wish her all the happiness for her projects ...

[kellina]

Dru, I read previously that she planned to end her reign at year ten. When I saw the 90th anniversary issue and the way she blew the wad I was convinced she would not stick around for the 100th. Whomever comes next at Vogue Paris has an impossible act to follow, I cannot wait to see...

[kellina]

SMM, perhaps she has not signed a contract with anyone but I am certain that Carine is full of ideas about what is next. Perhaps she and Christian Restoin can resume the Equipment label now... I could certainly see her styling Tom Ford's lines as well.

[kellina]

Milla, that makes perfect sense to me. Let's set up the meeting with Monsieurs Newhouse and Romatet for Monday... If not us, how about Giovanna Battaglia?

; )

It is shocking, isn't it? I feel so many emotions, it is bizarre. Nice to know I am not the only one, thank you, dear. What shall we wear to the meeting?

[kellina]

Thanks, Ali B.! You are absolutely right, it is just on to the next fabulous thing. Because of course "normal life" for Carine in Paris is fabulous with or without the magazine. She won't stop being amazing but I am worried that the magazine might!

; )

[kellina]

Milla, I agree! Can't wait to see what her future holds. Yours too!!

; D

She has a few issues in the can and she has not left yet so you will have a few more Carine reviews mercifully!! Loving your comments, darling, I totally need them right now. I wish she would let us in on the plan, it would calm my nerves considerably!! I've been texting Kate for support. Wish you were here!

; )

xx

[kellina]

Carine has cajones, Michael, that is true. But what if Vogue US were next, as suggested constantly?

[kellina]

I will certainly be letting you know about anything I read that is factual, Maya. As my wise beau mentioned in consoling me, this is not I Want To Be Vogue Paris (though I DO want to be Vogue Paris editor!!!!) so the site will continue to follow the adventures of the Roitfeld family. Wherever they lead is sure to be the place to be.

; )

[kellina]

Yo, Julius, you slay me. It sounds as if you know a lot about this.

[kellina]

Kellina II, I think we know only one person can ascertain this truth for herself. If she were to look to me for sage advice, I would say to her, "Carine, strike while the Roitfeld iron is red hot. Remake Hollywood with as much sex and violence as you have Vogue Paris and thereby fashion around the globe. Extend the Roitfeld brand now by choosing whom to make beautiful on screen."

[kellina]

Cupcake, I share your sadness. As Anna Dello Russo noted, it is the end of an era. It is only a matter of time until we know what she is up to next so hang in there... We can console each other!! And there's sugar cookies... xo

[kellina]

Julius, too funny. Seriously.

[kellina]

It is a pity, Gala! I hate to see the era end but change is good and I look forward to fabulous things ahead, both for Carine and for Vogue Paris.

[Kate]

So, my favorite fashion icon has resigned....I'm so excited to see what Carine Roitfeld has up her sleeve!!! Whatever it is, it will be amazing!

My guess? Her own label. :)

Can't wait to see!!!!

[kellina]

Kate, as usual, I love the way you are thinking! Remember this dress Carine designed?

http://www.iwanttobearoitfeld.com/journal/2009/11/16/the-roitfelds-at-moca-30th-anniversary-party.html

[kellina]

Lara, I am sure this will be the catalyst for exciting developments. You have the right idea, happiness is key.

[Kate]

Kellina, how could I forget? :)

Yep. She could do it!!

[lara]

Hope we see her with her new projects soon ...

i share and make an article so i'm shocked and sad ...

kiss my fashion icon ...

http://www.lamodetmoa.over-blog.com

[21centurydressmaker]

first - shock and sadness
then - she's right - one MUST move on, she needs a new canvas, a new surrounding in order to express the next decade which has nothing to do with the last decade, ... now I am filled with anticipation - she is interested in lifestyle, life, living, will it be film, perfume, jewels, make-up ... ?
and as for FV - let them be courageous, surprise with the unexpected, with a new genius, a new vision!

[FASHIÓN (con acento)]

She´s great!! and, in my opinion, she had chosen the right moment to leave.

I´d prefer Anastasia Barbieri, Marie Amélie Sauvé, Olivier Lalanne or someone new, a big surprise!

xoxo

[Veiled]

I am dismayed at how literally you are taking Carine's 'resignation'. I believe, for reasons that are unclear, that she was sacked- a 'resignation' letter is how it's done, mes petites. It saves face all around. No one just up and leaves a powerful position at the height of her career, that's the stuff of fantasy. She may have known this for a bit, or perhaps not. But I, for one, don't believe she chose to resign.

Stay tuned, I say.

[kellina]

That would be truly lovely, Kate, I hope you are right!

[kellina]

Yes, Lara, the sooner the better! Cannot wait to see what is next for Carine.

[kellina]

Nancy, we have processed this information in the same way! I am very excited now to see how events unfold.

[kellina]

Absolutely, Fashión, as Coco Chanel was fond of saying, it is best to leave before the party ends. I like your choices for replacements, I think any of the three would bring an interesting perspective to the magazine.

xoxo

[kellina]

Veiled, this is an interesting theory but do you have evidence to support it? Carine has stated previously in interviews that she only wanted to do Vogue Paris for ten years. This move is in keeping with her plan so it would be a strange coincidence if she were actually fired at the ten year mark instead. Also, I have not heard reports of management being unhappy with her performance, have you?

[Cristina]

I am very surprised at this news! Is the end of an era .... and I think it will be easier to replace it. Who will take his place will have a legacy quite cumbersome.

Kisss

[kellina]

Cristina, it is the end of an era, that is the sad part. I liked this era. But I am sure the new one will be even better once we see it! A cumbersome legacy indeed for the next VP EIC...

Kisses

[Milla]

Hope you're feeling a little calmer now - wish we hanging out...

I don't agree with Gio as EIC. She's fab but no, not for Vogue Paris. My hope is that they promote within. Madame Alt is great but her personal style need to be stepped up a wee bit. Her style pales in comparison to Carine's.

The more I think about it, the happier I am for Carine. Good on her!

As for the theory that she was sacked for such a petty reason, I don't buy it. If they were beeped off by her collaboration, she may have been reprimanded, but no sensible board is going to fire her. No, don't agree.

Yes, she needs a plan. More for our sake than hers though : ) The end of an era for sure. Gosh, I really admire what she's doing. Go Carine!!

x

PS - I love that we have a Kellina II!

[Veiled]

I apologize for stating that Carine was sacked, without the requisite facts. She could have resigned to pursue other passions, as stated, or in dispute with the publisher.

I only know from experience that resignation letters are usually a polite cover, a veil if you will, for the Real Reason, usually a dispute with higher management over something or a decision on the part of higher management to change course, restructure, save money, etc. That it would happen to Carine at what appears to be the height of her success seems impossible, but nobody (except Anna Wintour perhaps) is expendable.

My friends in the fashion industry don't think this is a simple resignation - the gossip seems to be around either she was spending too much money (in which case she was sacked) or she asked for more money for herself and was denied (in which case she resigned). But this isn't based on fact so - again, stay tuned.

[kellina]

Milla, you know I am a planner so being without a plan makes me nervous! How I wish we were sitting on your sofa together gossiping about this over a cup of tea! Nothing would comfort me more. Except maybe a cup of your homemade cocoa... Or your gran's Jamaican stew... I can bring cookies, what time should I be there?

; )

While we are on the subject of comfort, each night when my computer shuts down and all the desktop icons go away, I gaze at winter in Paris with Milla for a peaceful moment — LOVE! Merci mille fois for sharing your beautiful photos with us, dear.

I must say that I would like to see a departure altogether from the rock chic for which Carine (and Emmanuelle) are known. That look seems to be saturating the world currently. If it is the end of an era, let's look new... How about Charlotte Gainsbourg and Lou Doillon? Okay, so maybe I am just projecting my personal preferences with no real business acumen... but it would be cooool!!

Yes, Kellina II is a source of amusement. Whomever it is loves to tease me.

x

[kellina]

Veiled, I actually enjoy the introduction of all possibilities, no apology required for stating your opinion. I'd love to hear more if you do...