Samira Nasr has been named the first black editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar

Samira Nasr, who was recently the executive director of the fashion house Vanity Fair, will be the head of the American edition from next month, the publisher Hearst announced on Tuesday.

“As the proud daughter of a Lebanese father and a Trinidadian mother, my worldview is broad and anchored in the belief that representation matters,” Nasr said. “My lenses are vivid by nature. That’s why it’s important for me to begin a new chapter in the history of the Bazaar with a bright light on all the individuals I find to be the inspiring voices of our time.”

The move marks the return of Hearst for Nasr, who was previously the fashion director at another of the company’s titles, Elle. Prior to that, she held a directorial role in fashion magazine InStyle, and began her career as an assistant to Vogue’s former creative director Grace Coddington.

“I believe Harper’s Bazaar can provide the best in fashion, and it’s all a place where the community can come together to celebrate the arts, music, pop culture and also learn about the important issues we face today as women,” she said, “like the struggle for human rights, our reproductive rights and the obstacles we face as we fight for equality in the workplace. “

Nasr also offered a message of solidarity to protesters and activists who took to the streets across America after the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.

“I see you, thank you and I hope we will be able to join forces to reinforce the message of equality because black lives will be important,” she said.

Positive reception

Meanwhile, current Nasra boss, Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Radhika Jones, wished her well in her new role.