Supermodel Naomi Campbell delivered a fiery response to a comment made by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour at the 2024 Harlem Fashion Row Style Awards.
The two industry titans exchanged barbed comments over Campbell’s late arrival at Harlem’s Fashion Row event, a high-profile celebration of Black designers and fashion innovators. The event, meant to be a joyous celebration of style, unexpectedly became the backdrop for a tension-filled exchange between the fashion icons.
The 58-year-old British supermodel received the Fashion Icon Award at the 17th Annual Harlem’s Fashion Row Fashion Show & Style Awards on Tuesday, September 3, in New York City.
Anna Wintour took the stage to present Campbell with the Fashion Icon Award, but she was clearly upset because Campbell had yet to arrive at the event. Wintour, renowned for her sharp fashion critiques and no-nonsense attitude, subtly called out the supermodel’s lack of punctuality in front of the crowd.
According to a video shared on X (formerly Twitter), Wintour introduced herself by saying she was “presenting tonight to someone who is often late. “
During her intro, the 74-year-old said, “I am a very punctual person, and I have the honor of presenting tonight to someone who is often late. “
And she reportedly left the event immediately following her address — and before Campbell’s arrival.
When she finally arrived at the event, Campbell seemingly addressed Wintour’s remark about her tardiness during her acceptance speech.
When she arrived, Harper’s Bazaar Editor-in-Chief Samira Nasr—who was also honored that night—presented her award, and Naomi Campbell demonstrated her preference for the EIC over “the other lady,” Wintour.
“Yes, Naomi’s always late, but I believe in my high power and want to thank my higher power for having me be here. It’s so important that I’m here today and honored to be here in Harlem. Everything’s going to work out the way it’s going to work out. It wasn’t my choice to have the other lady. I’d much rather have this,” Campbell said.
Despite the criticism, Campbell had some kind words for Wintour in return. The model thanked the editor for taking the time “to come here and give me the award even though I wasn’t here” and for kickstarting her career.
