‘Worst kept secret’: The new editor of Vogue Australia is a celebrity stylist

Faces of members of the Australian fashion industry still capable of looking surprised will remain unmoved at the announcement of celebrity stylist Christine Centenera as the new editor-in-chief of Vogue Australia.

“It has been the worst kept secret in the fashion industry,” says outgoing editor-in-chief Edwina McCann, who will continue as the magazine’s editorial director and publisher.

For months Centenera’s imminent appointment has been an open secret, casually referred to by advertisers and former staff members at industry events, awaiting McCann’s confirmation.

“I am excited by this decision,” McCann says. “Vogue ’s success is driven by its visual communication and how it defines the now. Christine is an extraordinary image maker and incredibly influential for her generation and beyond. The way she communicates Vogue Australia’s unique viewpoint will be noticed.”

Along with crafting Vogue covers, Centenera is a skilled multitasker, having juggled duties as the magazine’s fashion director, freelance styling work with controversial rapper and designer Ye (Kanye West), campaigns for luxury label Louis Vuitton and designing her label Wardrobe NYC.

While editing the Australian edition of the magazine, published by News Corp Australia, Centenera will continue working in the US and London.

“I love being in close proximity to the extraordinary photographers, and people that we work with on the pages – anywhere in the world,” Centenera said in a statement. “Wherever I go, people love Australia and I’m proud to be an Australian abroad.”

Raised in Adelaide, Centenera rose to prominence as fashion director at Harper’s Bazaar Australia, gaining attention for directional editorial work and her restrained personal style. In 2011, she was hired by McCann as Vogue Australia’s fashion director, leading to memorable covers with supermodel Gigi Hadid, Kardashian and Cate Blanchett.