Give Me Liberty

English fashion icon Liberty Ross/1 Mgmt is curating a specially commissioned fashion shoot lensed by Nick Knight for the next issue of British Vogue. Says Liberty about the project, "The idea was to explore the concept of nature, and how it could be violent. It's about an intense awakening of the senses. In many ways the story is sort of sexual and raw. My hair is bleached. The colors are strong tones of pink and blue. It really was more about approaching the ideas from the angle of art and I have to thank British Vogue for giving us that freedom. They've been amazing!" A formidable taste-maker in her own right, Liberty is one of those stealth fashion forces that you might be well advised to keep an eye on.

Loving Liya

How exciting was it seeing MDC fave Liya Kebede on the cover of the May issue of that quintessential fashion bible, Paris Vogue. Described in the publication as "a disco princess, priestess of rap, relaxed nomad and soul sister" the IMG star scored a first by having the issue "tailored" around her stellar presence. But was she aware that the issue would be "Tout Sur Liya" (All About Liya)? In response Liya offered "I found about it half way through the shooting of the various stories. After we shot the cover-try, the idea became more solid." And how does the Ethiopian beauty feel about the strong passion she evokes in the French market with signature clients like YSL, Balenciaga and now Paris Vogue? "It's been wonderful that they have been so supportive of me. I really appreciate it. I have to also mention there have been so many other clients from all over the world who have been just as supportive." So diplomatic, that Liya!