A Fashion Icon Remembered
In October, the fashion industry mourned the loss of the legendary stylist, Melanie Ward. An early pioneer of the grunge movement, she left an indelible mark on the industry. Notably, she introduced a then-16-year-old Kate Moss to the world in the iconic July 1990 issue of THE FACE, photographed by Corinne Day.
A Defining Moment
Reflecting on that historic cover, Melanie shared, “The cover of Kate wearing the crown embodies a seminal, defining moment in fashion and the music scene, the zeitgeist of the ’90s. Everything changed.” She embraced a new democratic freedom that encouraged individuals to express their uniqueness and authenticity.
Over her impressive career, Melanie served as the senior fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar for more than a decade, collaborating with prestigious brands such as Dior Homme, Louis Vuitton, Helmut Lang, Hermès, and Calvin Klein. She often referred to her collaborators as “family.” Our thoughts are with them and all who cherished her. Rest in peace, Melanie.
Cherished Memories
Phil Bicker, THE FACE Art Director from 1987 to 1991, fondly recalls Melanie: “My memories of Melanie will always hold a special place in my heart.” He reminisced about their time at THE FACE’s offices in the late ’80s and early ’90s, discussing fashion stories with her and photographers like Nigel Shafran, David Sims, Corinne Day, and Donald Christie.
“She was a rare and genuine talent,” Bicker added. “Her pared-back aesthetic changed the course of fashion. More than that, she was an authentic person, deeply cherished by her collaborators and friends. The outpouring of love following her passing is a testament to the beautiful soul she was.”
A Magical Influence
Photographer Collier Schorr also shared her thoughts: “Dear world. A few words about the magical Melanie Ward.” She described how Melanie had influenced her understanding of clothing and freedom in the ’90s, even before they worked together.
“I worked with her only once, but her ability to see possibilities and breathe life into them was illuminating,” Schorr reflected. “I knew that if I had to stay up until 4 am, there wouldn’t have been a better companion than Melanie Ward. Truly magical. Missed by all of you and myself.”
A Kind Soul
Make-up artist Dick Page affectionately recalled Melanie with playful nicknames like Lemony Worm and Sylvia the Snake Lady, stemming from a funny dance she once performed. He described her as “a magically kind person,” whose cleverness was both light and generous.
“She was warm in person and at work, understanding the importance of collaboration,” Page noted. “She knew that no single person was the architect of a photograph or fashion show—we made all these things together. She was glad to share the spotlight and the joy of creation with others. She was magically, wonderfully kind.”
Source inspired by international fashion publications. Adapted & edited for Maverick.
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