Not everyone gets a 14-page spread in Vogue magazine as a farewell gift...
But the Ritz Paris does!
The latter half of every Vogue issue is what I like to refer to as the "meat" of the magazine. It's home to all the endless editorials and lengthy articles of the month; with none of those superfluously scientific health rambles or European villa reviews to interrupt the fantasmical flow of fashion that awaits once the halfway-mark of the magazine is passed.
This April, a bittersweet reverie of infinite luxury and sumptuous style graced the pages of Vogue as some of the top names in the industry recalled decades' worth of fond (models napping in-between shows in Donatella Versace's suite - fake eyelashes still intact) and wild (intoxicated designers and models staggering around, post runway show, with flutes of champagne till the early hours) memories at the Ritz Paris. Soon to close it's doors for renovation, Vogue took hold of this last opportunity to celebrate the glamour and regal heritage of this celebrated hotel by shooting the ever-breathtaking Kate Moss in a series of haute couture and custom "made for Vogue" ensembles by the world's most esteemed designers. From candy-colored confections to sombre, stiff tableaux, the variety of photographs is almost as splendid as the majestic, gem-adorned interiors of the Ritz.
As well as photographing Kate Moss in all her finery, the lens also shifted to the meticulous organization "behind the scenes" (which was no less glamorous!). Pictures of the doormen, chefs, waiters, bartenders, receptionists and hotel management punctuated the dramatic scenes, such as the one of Mrs. Moss perched vainly atop a curtained bed. This editorial was unique in the sense that it included more than just photographs- it told an intimate story close to the hearts of many, and celebrated a destination that was more than just somewhere to crash for a few nights. The Ritz Paris transcended the boundaries of just a hotel; it was the home of the most fabulous moments and memories that the fashion industry has to offer.
After all, what better way to say "au revoir," or rather, "à bientôt," than to publish an editorial in honour of this iconic fashionista's haven?
