Abbey Lee Channels Retro Glamour on Vogue Australia’s September 2025 Covers

A New Era of Vogue Australia Covers

Since taking the helm as editor-in-chief of Vogue Australia, Christine Centenera has curated a dazzling lineup of cover stars. From Lorde and Lila Moss to Natalie Portman and Sarah Snook, the magazine has consistently featured global icons. Now, for the September 2025 issue, the spotlight turns to Australian model-turned-actress Abbey Lee, who graces the cover with two stunning images that exude major retro glamour.

The Covers: A Study in Vintage Allure

Photographed by Daniel Jackson and styled by Katelyn Gray, the covers capture Abbey Lee in looks from Hermès and Miu Miu. The first cover presents her in a sleek, tailored ensemble that channels old-Hollywood sophistication. The second cover takes a more avant-garde approach, with dramatic styling and a sultry gaze reminiscent of 1970s cinema.

Fans and fashion insiders alike have praised the covers for bringing color and personality back to Vogue Australia. After a period of minimalist, muted covers, this bold retro-inspired direction has been widely welcomed.

Fan Reactions: Divided but Enthusiastic

The fashion community has been vocal about the covers. Forum members on theFashionSpot shared mixed but passionate opinions. One user, vogue22, immediately admired the first cover, calling it a standout. Another, DK92, questioned the need for a second cover, while crmsn drew comparisons to Miles Aldridge’s work for Beauty in Vogue, noting that Australian Vogue has finally reintroduced color to its covers. Mr Yayo saw echoes of supermodel Veruschka in the second cover, and Ludwig praised Abbey Lee’s unforgettable eyes, likening her to a 1970s actress. Overall, the vintage vibe has resonated strongly, with many celebrating the return of bold, glamorous imagery.

Abbey Lee: From Runway to Red Carpet

Abbey Lee Kershaw, known mononymously as Abbey Lee, first rose to fame as a top model in the late 2000s. She walked for designers like Alexander McQueen, Chanel, and Givenchy, and became a muse for fashion houses such as Versace and Prada. Her striking features and chameleon-like ability to transform have made her a favorite among photographers.

Transitioning into acting, she landed roles in major films including Mad Max: Fury Road (2015), The Neon Demon (2016), and Office Christmas Party (2016). Her performance in Mad Max as The Dag showcased her ability to hold her own among Hollywood heavyweights. More recently, she has appeared in Lovecraft Country and The King’s Man, solidifying her status as a versatile talent.

Throughout her career, Abbey Lee has maintained a strong connection with her Australian roots. She has appeared multiple times in Vogue Australia, but this latest cover marks a significant moment—her first major cover under Christine Centenera’s editorship.

The Creative Team Behind the Shoot

The September 2025 cover shoot brings together a powerhouse team. Photographer Daniel Jackson, known for his striking fashion editorials and celebrity portraits, captures Abbey Lee with a cinematic flair. Stylist Katelyn Gray, whose work has appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W Magazine, curates looks that blend modern luxury with vintage charm.

Makeup and hair details further enhance the retro mood. The beauty direction emphasizes bold eyes, defined brows, and soft, glowing skin—a nod to the glamour of the 1960s and 1970s. The result is a series of images that feel both timeless and fresh, celebrating the enduring appeal of classic Hollywood style.

A Shift in Vogue Australia’s Visual Identity

Under Christine Centenera, Vogue Australia has undergone a visual transformation. Centenera, a former fashion director at Vogue Australia and stylist for celebrities like Kylie Minogue and Nicole Kidman, brings a refined yet daring aesthetic to the title. She has championed both established and emerging talent, commissioning bold covers that stand out on newsstands.

The September 2025 issue is particularly significant as it marks the magazine’s entry into the spring season. Historically, September issues are among the most important in fashion publishing, setting trends for the months ahead. By choosing Abbey Lee—a model who seamlessly bridges high fashion and mainstream appeal—Centenera signals that Vogue Australia is embracing its identity as a global player while honoring its Australian heritage.

Abbey Lee’s Place in Fashion History

Abbey Lee is more than just a cover star; she is a symbol of the modern fashion landscape. Her career trajectory mirrors the evolution of the industry itself, from the rise of social media influencers to the increasing crossover between modeling and acting. She has navigated these changes with grace, maintaining relevance while staying true to her artistic instincts.

In an era where authenticity is prized, Abbey Lee’s willingness to take risks—whether on the runway, in film, or on magazine covers—has earned her a loyal following. Her appearance on Vogue Australia’s September 2025 covers is a testament to her enduring appeal and her ability to capture the zeitgeist.

Behind the Scenes: The Photoshoot Experience

According to sources, the photoshoot for the September 2025 covers was a collaborative effort that brought together some of the industry’s most talented professionals. The set was designed to evoke a vintage film studio, complete with dramatic lighting and period-inspired props. Abbey Lee reportedly brought her own creative energy to the shoot, suggesting poses and expressions that enhanced the retro theme.

The styling, featuring pieces from Hermès and Miu Miu, was carefully selected to complement the mood. Hermès contributed sleek leather pieces and silk scarves, while Miu Miu offered playful yet elegant dresses and accessories. The combination created a look that was both luxurious and approachable, perfect for a magazine that prides itself on accessibility.

The Public’s Verdict: Positive and Polarizing

As with any major cover, the public response has been a mix of praise and critique. Forum members on theFashionSpot continue to debate the merits of each cover. Some prefer the first cover for its simplicity and directness, while others are drawn to the more dramatic second cover. The common thread, however, is a sense of excitement about the magazine’s direction.

Beyond the forums, social media has been abuzz with reactions. Fans have shared the images on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, praising Abbey Lee’s return to the spotlight and the magazine’s bold aesthetic. Hashtags like #AbbeyLeeVogue and #VogueAustraliaSeptember are trending among fashion enthusiasts.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Abbey Lee?

With the release of the September 2025 issue, Abbey Lee’s star continues to rise. She is reportedly attached to several upcoming film projects, though details remain under wraps. Her fashion career, meanwhile, shows no signs of slowing down. As a CoverGirl for Vogue Australia, she joins a prestigious list of Australian models who have defined the industry, including Elle Macpherson, Miranda Kerr, and Gemma Ward.

For now, Abbey Lee is enjoying the moment. In an interview with Vogue Australia (excerpted on theFashionSpot), she spoke about her love for fashion and her appreciation for the creative team behind the covers. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent her home country on such a global stage.

The September 2025 issue of Vogue Australia is available on newsstands and online from September 1. Fans can expect more stunning imagery from the shoot in the coming weeks, along with exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

The Broader Impact on Fashion Publishing

Abbey Lee’s covers also reflect broader trends in fashion publishing. In an age of digital media, print magazines must find ways to captivate readers. Bold, visually arresting covers are one of the most effective tools. By embracing retro glamour, Vogue Australia is tapping into nostalgia while also pushing boundaries.

This move aligns with a resurgence of interest in vintage aesthetics across fashion and culture. From the revival of 1970s silhouettes to the popularity of classic Hollywood beauty looks, consumers are increasingly drawn to styles that evoke a bygone era. Abbey Lee’s covers are perfectly positioned to capitalize on this trend.

In conclusion, the September 2025 issue of Vogue Australia represents a milestone for both the magazine and Abbey Lee. It showcases the power of collaboration between a visionary editor, a talented photographer, a gifted stylist, and a model who embodies elegance and versatility. As the fashion world eagerly awaits the next chapter for Vogue Australia and its cover stars, one thing is clear: Abbey Lee’s retro glamour has made an indelible mark.

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