At a recent event marking the kickoff of London Fashion Week, all eyes were on Anna Wintour, the British-American fashion icon known for her signature oversized sunglasses. However, fans were in for a surprise when Wintour made a rare departure from her usual style by ditching her iconic eyewear. The 76-year-old media executive and former Vogue editor-in-chief stepped out in a burgundy dress, a matching long coat with a velvet collar, and chic caramel-colored high-heeled boots, all while attending a discussion on British fashion with Queen Camilla.
This subtle change in her appearance did not go unnoticed by fashion observers, as it offered a unique glimpse into Wintour’s famously guarded style authority. Fans were quick to take note of this unexpected move, with many expressing their surprise and admiration for Wintour’s willingness to switch up her look. Some took to social media to comment on the absence of her sunglasses, with one user expressing how odd it was to see Wintour without them after 73 years.
In addition to her decision to forgo the oversized sunglasses, some fans also pointed out a subtle change in Wintour’s hairstyle, noting that she seemed to have darkened her hair slightly. Despite these deviations from her usual appearance, the overall consensus was positive, with many praising Wintour for her willingness to shake things up.
While the bob haircut and oversized sunglasses have long been synonymous with Wintour’s image, she has occasionally been seen without her shades on rare occasions. One such instance was during a ceremony with King Charles III, where she was presented with the Order of the Companions of Honour at Buckingham Palace in February 2025. Another notable event was in January of the same year when she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from then U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House.
In a 2019 interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, Wintour shared her rationale behind always wearing sunglasses, stating that they were a useful tool to conceal her thoughts. Despite this, her recent decision to go without them at the London Fashion Week event sparked conversations and showcased a different side of the fashion icon that fans rarely get to see. With her ever-evolving style and willingness to embrace change, Anna Wintour continues to captivate audiences with her fashion choices and industry influence.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.