The Silly Season

Ah, summer, a time of Pims,  strawberries and no news. Better known as the 'silly season' by the media, this is usually the period where 'hard' news goes into hibernation. You're more likely to find some form of sponsored entertainment; think viral video,  sponsor led survey, or photo opportunity (who's holidaying where and with whom)  than an item of major business or consumer news. A time for frivolity and what could be more frivolous than fashion and the fashion world. ' The September Issue', due out in a few weeks time, attempts to explore the myth of the fashion world and its Prada clad darlings. It focusses on the production of the all important 425 pages, September issue of US Vogue and in particular gives a fascinating insight into the persona that is its editor and über fashion icon, Anna Wintour.  Working with creative people is intellectually stimulating and emotionally demanding as the film shows. A lesson in soft skills management. Certainly, some wear black,  delight in first name, name dropping and working in places  where other mere mortals would just like to drop anchor and chill.  They see nothing incongruous in photographing haute couture in far flung reaches of the planet surrounded by yaks, cannibals or both. However, cut through some of the larger than life, diva-esque characters and you're likely to find extremely hard working, goal oriented and focussed professionals who don't do 9 to 5.  What comes through clearly is Anna Wintour's canny ability to bridge the gap between commerce and creativity. She describes herself as 'decisive' but surely this has to be a sine  que non with a job that can influence millions and therefore make or break a fashion house or retailer.  For industry it certainly is, a $30 billion industry to be exact and US Vogue with its circulation of 1.2 million and page rates of around $90,000 plays a key role within this industry.