The Time 100 list for 2007 demonstrates the rising power of fashion in society.
In the upcoming May 4 issue, Time will release their third annual list of the most influential group of actors, politicians, writers, scientists and designers. While it’s sometimes mistaken for an honor, the list is compiled based on how someone is effecting change in the world & their influence – for better or worse. The 20 people (or pairs or small groups) within each of five categories - Leaders & Revolutionaries, Builders & Titans, Artists & Entertainers, Scientists & Thinkers, and Heroes & Icons – wielding the most influence are selected. As a sign of the times, the magazine has included a heavyweight fashion component in their choices, including the Lanvin designer, models-turned-entrepreneurs Kate Moss & Tyra Banks, and LVMH bigwig Bernard Arnault.
A-listers like Natalie Portman, Naomi Wolf, and Harvey Weinstein were all drafted to pen profiles of those being honored. Regarding Arnault, Weinstein has this to say: "He appreciates the power of art to improve and shape every area of our culture, including fashion, business, real estate and politics….I once innocently asked Bernard why he was skipping a formal reception after [John] Galliano's Dior show in Paris. He responded that he had other priorities, the first of which was rushing home to cheer on France in the World Cup.”
While the Time editors ostensibly choose the list based on talent, power, and contribution to the world, what we, the people have to say is a different matter; it’s interesting to note that the Top 5 most influential people, in order, are currently Stephen Colbert, Shigeru Miyamoto, J.K. Rowling, Sidney Crosby, and Bono - a testament to the alluring power of pop culture if ever there was one.
- via WWD
