On Friday, singer Rita Ora, aged 34, attended Edward Enninful’s EE72 launch party in Paris during Fashion Week, wearing a sheer black dress that revealed silver undergarments. The outfit, complemented by silver open-toe heels, a black handbag, and dark sunglasses, attracted considerable attention as she posed for photographs outside Le Grand Café.
The event was attended by numerous public figures, including Academy Award–winning actress Cynthia Erivo, Australian model Shanina Shaik, and recording artist Demi Lovato. Ms. Shaik, aged 34, appeared in a backless cowl-neck gown featuring metallic detailing, paired with black heels, while Ms. Lovato, aged 33, wore a cropped blazer and matching pencil skirt, accessorized with a red handbag and styled with a wet-look curled updo. Heidi Klum and her daughter Leni were also present, both in tailored blazers.
The occasion marked the official unveiling of EE72 magazine, a venture spearheaded by Mr. Edward Enninful, aged 53, who previously served as editor-in-chief of British Vogue and was the first male and first Black individual to hold that position. Mr. Enninful’s tenure was widely perceived as marked by speculation of professional rivalry with Anna Wintour, aged 75, the long-standing editor-in-chief of American Vogue and Global Chief Content Officer of Condé Nast.
Mr. Enninful, who began his career as fashion director of i-D magazine at 18, announced the formation of EE72 Media in February 2024, in partnership with his sister, Akua Enninful. The company’s quarterly print magazine, 72, is intended to be the “cornerstone” of the enterprise. On Instagram, Mr. Enninful described the initiative as designed to provide “boundary-breaking storytelling and content” that reflects contemporary cultural shifts. He further disclosed that the editorial team includes former Vogue colleague Sarah Harris, as well as Lee Swillingham and Stuart Spalding, who will serve as creative directors.
The launch event, supported by high-profile attendees such as Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow, signals Mr. Enninful’s return to the spotlight after nearly 18 months of professional hiatus. Industry observers have speculated that the launch of 72 may intensify perceived tensions between Mr. Enninful and Ms. Wintour, particularly with respect to diversity and representation within the fashion industry.#newsafro_
