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While the glossy front covers collected by supermodels during their careers are hallmarks of their success, model-turned-entrepreneur Karlie Kloss just redefined what it means to make it in the world of magazine publishing.
The model has officially acquired the British bi-monthly luxury fashion and culture publication, i-D Magazine, with the terms of the deal stipulating the 31-year-old will serve as CEO.
Veteran fashion stylist and current editor-in-chief of i-D, Alastair McKimm, has been appointed as chief creative office and global editor-in-chief, with his designation effective from the finalisation of the deal.
Kloss acquired the legacy title from VICE Media—owner of Vice, Refinery29 and more—after the conglomerate filed for bankruptcy in May 2023. As per The Hollywood Reporter, VICE’s chiefs Bruce Dixon and Hozefa Lokhandwala circulated an internal memo that confirmed the acquisition. Their statement reportedly claims the deal arose from VICE’s “ongoing strategy to streamline and focus VMG on our core business”.
On Kloss’ leadership, the memo allegedly notes: “Karlie has deep roots in the fashion industry and has established herself as an entrepreneur who has a vision for the future of i-D and the industry at large.”
The publication was founded in 1980 by British art director Terry Jones, with i-D originating as a street-style print gallery capturing the subculture of English punk youths. The entity developed from the gritty fanzine to a global network with outputs in the US and formerly Australia keeping a tenacious eye on underground movement and counterculture style.
Kloss’ history with i-D began in 2011 when a then-19-year-old Karlie fronted the issue with the brand’s signature wink and smile.
Her work as a model aside, this isn’t the first time Kloss had a hand in the business dealings of a print entity, either. In 2020, Kloss led a group of investors including Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton and fellow model Kaia Gerber to acquire W Magazine.
Many fashion fanatics are also speculating whether Kloss’ husband’s family, The Kushners, assisted in any way with the acquisition, with the momentary value of the deal not yet disclosed.
The future of i-D under Kloss’ helm is yet to be realised, but she joins a legion of consummate fashion icons like Edward Enninful and Caryn Franklin who walked the halls of the mag.
One thing is clear: Kloss will be looking camp right in the eye with one half closed.
