V105: Start the Year Out with a Bang
Our January issue featuring Kendall Jenner, Ashley Graham, Dua Lipa and more is out now. You can order your copy directly from our shop site here.
Our January issue featuring Kendall Jenner, Ashley Graham, Dua Lipa and more is out now. You can order your copy directly from our shop site here.
Text: Joseph Akel
A great poet once wrote, “Last year’s words belong to last year’s language, and next year’s words await another voice.” If that's the case, consider V105 our rebel yell. Since language is both visual and aural, we've always taken to heart the task of pairing unique voices with Spring fashion's unveiling, and we've compiled a checklist of the muses who demand—and deserve—to be seen and heard in the new year.
To kick things off, some of today’s greatest models—including Kendall Jenner, Joan Smalls, Lara Stone, and more—make their marks in a provocative fantasy showcasing the Sailor Jerry-inspired designs of tattoo artist Jenai Chin. As V’s editor-at-large Derek Blasberg notes, what sets these women apart is their spirit of independence and conviction. Shot by Mario Testino and styled by fashion editor Paul Cavaco, the phrase "body language" has never been more apt. We even printed special edition tattoos of the issue's cover stars, available only online here.
For 16-year-old singer-songwriter Noah Cyrus, being heard comes naturally. Growing up with father Billy Ray and older sister Miley, the youngest of the prodigious Cyrus clan is poised to embark on her own musical journey. Photographed by Inez & Vinoodh, Cyrus opens up to us for an intimate look at an artist determined to march to the beat of her own drum. We've released a glimpse of the story already—stay tuned for more next week.
Speaking of refusal to compromise, model, entrepreneur, and body-positive activist Ashley Graham turned heads in a racy Lane Bryant campaign, which was banned by several TV networks. She also appeared on a history-making cover of Sports Illustrated’s “Swimsuit Issue” that defied conventional standards of beauty. In addition to an edgy, urban vision shot by Steven Klein and styled by Robbie Spencer, Graham talks with close friend Chelsea Handler, offering a frank and hilarious discussion on the subject of weight and its perception in popular culture.
While some voices speak to us, others are music to our ears. Singer Dua Lipa is on track to take 2017 by storm with the upcoming release of her self-titled debut album. Following the chart-topping success of her hit singles “Hotter than Hell” and “Blow Your Mind (Mwah),” Lipa’s unique blend of confessional lyrics and a down-to-earth personality reveal a pop star looking to break the mold. Photographed by Mario Testino and styled by Tom Guinness, Lipa channels a modern vision of Cher, an icon of independence like no other.
Finally, we’re excited to introduce the first installment of Hedi Slimane’s ongoing portrait series, New York Diary, an intimate ode to the individuals who have left a lasting mark on the city V calls home. There’s no better way to begin a new year—and the voices we will find in it—than to look to those who live life decidedly on their own terms.
