A Profile of the Life and Work of Fashion Icon Gilles Bensimon

Gilles Bensimon is an iconic figure in the fashion world. He is best known for his work as a photographer, but he has also been a creative director, designer, and editor-in-chief of Elle magazine. His unique style and eye for beauty have won him praise from fashion critics and fans around the world. In this article, we will explore the life and work of Gilles Bensimon and discover why he is considered one of the most influential figures in fashion.

Table of Contents:
I. Early Life and Career
II. Photography Work
III. Creative Direction
IV. Editorial Work
V. Awards and Accomplishments
VI. Legacy

I. Early Life and Career:
Gilles Bensimon was born in 1944 in Paris, France. He studied art and fashion design at the Institute of Fine Arts in Paris. After graduating, he worked as an assistant for the fashion photographer Jacques Guilbert. In 1972, Bensimon was hired as a fashion photographer for Elle magazine. He quickly gained recognition for his unique style and daring compositions. He was also known for his use of natural light and his ability to capture the subtleties of the human form. His work soon made him one of the most sought-after photographers in the fashion industry.

II. Photography Work:
Bensimon’s photography work was highly acclaimed. He was known for his ability to capture the beauty of the human form and to bring out the best in his subjects. In the 1980s, he worked extensively with Elle magazine, shooting celebrities such as Cindy Crawford, Lauren Hutton, and Linda Evangelista. He also worked with major fashion brands such as Calvin Klein and Yves Saint Laurent. He shot advertising campaigns, fashion editorials, and commercial images. His work was featured in magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W.

III. Creative Direction:
In addition to photography, Bensimon also worked as a creative director for Elle magazine. He was responsible for creating the magazine’s look and feel. He was known for his bold and daring aesthetic, which was ahead of its time. He was also known for his innovative use of color and experimentation with light and shadow. His work was widely praised for its unique vision.

IV. Editorial Work:
In 1988, Bensimon was appointed as editor-in-chief of Elle magazine. He was the first non-French editor to helm the magazine. He was known for his bold and modern approach to fashion. He was also known for his ability to bring out the best in his writers and to find new talent. He was responsible for discovering and launching the careers of many fashion designers and models.

V. Awards and Accomplishments:
Bensimon’s work has won numerous awards and accolades. In 1998, he was awarded the Grand Prix de la Photographie by the French Institute of Image and Sound. He was also awarded the Prix International de Photographie by the French National Institute of Photographic Arts. In 2008, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

VI. Legacy:
Gilles Bensimon is considered one of the most influential figures in fashion. His unique style and vision have inspired generations of photographers, designers, and editors. His work has been featured in countless books and exhibitions. He is widely credited with bringing a modern sensibility to fashion photography and editorial work. He has left an indelible mark on the fashion world and his legacy will continue to influence generations to come.