Amanda Gorman lands U.S. Vogue cover
Amanda Gorman has made history as the first poet to appear on the cover of U.S. Vogue.
The 23-year-old, who generated international acclaim after she delivered her poem The Hill We Climb at the inauguration of U.S. President Joe Biden in January, was unveiled as the cover star for the May 2021 edition of the fashion publication on Wednesday.
Photographed by Annie Leibovitz and styled by Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, the main cover image depicts Amanda posing in a Louis Vuitton outfit inspired by menswear creative director Virgil Abloh's Ghanaian heritage.
Taking to Instagram to share the exciting news, the poet/activist wrote in the accompanying caption that the experience was a dream come true.
"The first poet ever on the cover of @voguemagazine. I am eternally grateful and do not expect to be the last - for what is poetry if not beauty?" she posted. "What a joy to do this cover while wearing a piece designed by groundbreaking Black designer @virgilabloh that honours my heritage. It was a dream to be photographed by the indomitable @annieleibovitz and styled by @gabriellak_j who literally would carry me on her back and forth between set. Wow, my hands are shaking with love. This is called the Rise of Amanda Gorman, but it is truly for all of you, both named and unseen, who lift me up."
In the accompanying interview, Amanda also opened up about her experience at the inauguration and how she came to select the yellow Prada coat and red silk headband for the ceremony. Commenting on her accessories, the California native noted that her mother suggested she wear the striking headband over her braided bun like "a tiara, a crown."
The Vogue cover isn't Amanda's first appearance in a major publication - she was also highlighted in Time magazine's 100 Next list under the category of Phenoms earlier this year.
