The only constant in life is change itself. Lately, though, it feels like the world has slammed the metaphorical pedal to the metal, hurling us down an uncharted highway of artificial intelligence, surreal politics, and, of course, fashion cycles so dizzying that miniskirts are “in” one moment, then out the window and gathering dust in a ditch the next.

Naturally, we’ve become obsessed with the rearview mirror, romanticizing simpler times. For V, that means indulging in the mid-century magic of the ‘50s and ‘60s: the era that gave rise to fashion’s first icons, from Lisa Fonssagrives-Penn, Jean Patchett, to Peggy Moffitt, Dovima, Donyale Luna, and Twiggy. But appreciating vintage aesthetics is one thing. Embodying them? That’s a rare talent. Enter Gigi Hadid: a cultural fixture and modern-day supermodel who manages to stay wholly of the moment while effortlessly channeling the timeless glamour of a bygone era.

Here, Hadid—draped in Miu Miu’s Fall 2025 collection—pays homage to the supers of yesteryear as she delivers a masterclass in nostalgia, blending elegance and edge with fashion’s most present pulse.

“I never liked being photographed. I just happened to be good at it.”

—JEAN SHRIMPTON

“If you’re not a little scared, you’re not doing anything brave.”

—CHINA MACHADO

“In the Sixties, fashion was about liberation. It was about setting women free; it wasn’t about being unable to walk.”

—VERUSCHKA VON LEHNDORFF

“Being a grown-up woman doesn’t mean you can’t look beautiful, individual, and different”

—TWIGGY

This story appears in the pages of V156: now available for purchase!

Photography Luigi & Iango

Fashion Gabriella Karefa-Johnson

Model Gigi Hadid (IMG Models)

Makeup Georgi Sandev (Forward Artists) using Maybelline New York

Hair Akki Shirakawa (Art Partner) using Oribe

Manicure Leanne Woodley (See Management) using Dior Beauty & She Nails It Hydration

Tailor Jules Peiperl (7th Bone Tailoring)

Photo Assistant Francisco Bettencourt

Fashion Assistants Marley Cohen, Ava Deith