I was ambivalent about the young Tavi Gevinson until Harper’s Bazaar retained her for her garbled writing style and 15 minute industry hype. It was a cheap move, and it reeked of corporate grabs for publicity hype.
It’s clear that Tavi is being used as the industry’s latest gimmick, and is doubly clear that this little girl is being taken advantage of, and Harper’s Bazaar should be ashamed. You wouldn’t see Anna Wintour accepting that level of editorial within Vogue’s pages, which now shines Harper’s in a very elementary light in comparison.
For those thinking these are simply the words of a cynical, jealous writer – you are partially right. We all want free designer pieces thrown at us and the opportunities being given, but they should be given to those who have the talent to back up the designer and publisher’s investment.
One need to be all parts of the creative professional whole to be successful for themselves, and she simply can’t measure up just yet.
Tavi can dress like a lovely maniac and that’s laudable; but that does not indicate editorial insight. In this girl’s case, it is clear she struggles with the level of wordplay one requires to be published in such a publication as Harper’s Bazaar [her article for HB is published here].
For those thinking we may give her a break as she’s only just entered her teen years, I scoff. Age has nothing to do with the skeptic’s judgement of her – it breaks down to her capabilities. While her age makes her a novelty, it also hinders her with her skill in penning reviews and opinions worthy of a world recognized magazine.
It’s not enough to be able to dress uniquely, or legitimate buyers and editors would have been edged out for sad souls plastering themselves across Lookbook[dot]nu. While I believe she is genuine and has a love for clothing, she has also become a figurehead for fast fashion, and has acquired just as much credibility.
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I recently bought a magazine that had multiple editorials with her as well as the cover. Although I think she’s cute as is her passion for clothing, this is the creation of a monster, much like child stars who are thrust into the entertainment spotlight without the experience or ability to understand what is happening to them.
Dressing up is one thing, having a high-pressure fashion job as a writer and commentator is an entirely different thing.
The adults making these decisions to use her need a firm slap.
She’s a kid… support the interest/hobby, but don’t put her to work for christ’s sake.
12.09.09 @ 7:19 pmi believe she has a better sense of fashion (and maturity) than you do…
12.09.09 @ 11:04 pmTough words, Emily. That hurts.
12.09.09 @ 11:13 pm“i believe she has a better sense of fashion (and maturity) than you do…”
What kind of a mature thing is that to say? Would you say this to the author in real life? Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
12.09.09 @ 11:15 pm“i believe she has a better sense of fashion (and maturity) than you do…”
When you have a successful fashion blog, and a good one to boot, then I’ll believe you. Until then, your opinion doesn’t matter to me.
- VIV.
12.10.09 @ 2:16 amI think Anne Slowey of Elle also had the same sentiments about Tavi being a mere gimmick. She speculated about Tavi’s blog writing not matching how she spoke about fashion and what not, or something along those lines.
http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2009/12/tavi_the_13-year-old_fashion_b.html
I think she’s cute and all, definitely with great fashion/ style worthy of inspiration. In terms of her reviewing or criticizing designers & collections, thats a bit much for a 13 year old noh?
Either way, gimmick or not, I’m still really envious of her being able to rub shoulders with the creme de la creme of fashion and wear their designs. = (
12.10.09 @ 3:10 ami love you tavi gévinson
02.18.10 @ 4:07 pmLeave a comment
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