Models Alix Bouthors, Beauise Ferwerda, and Daria Koshkina are styled by Sissy Vian in ‘Film Noir’ dark elegance. Photographer Paolo Roversi [IG] is in the studio for Harper’s Bazaar Italia December 2022./ Hair by Stephane Lancien; makeup by Tom Pecheux

Reviewing the December 2022 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Italia, as it prints select issues rather than being digital-only, is a feast for eyes. You probably surmise that AOC has a positive impression of the sequence of fashion stories in the issue.

Would we tire of it every month? Probably, if the same fashion attitude permeated its pages. But there is a point of view in this issue that feels handcrafted — the work of artisans.

There is even compatibility among the main photographers Melanie+Ramon, Paolo Roversi and Paul Kooiker, suggesting that the creatives are seeking a unifying statement throughout the issue that may be different from their usual style.

Yes, we have racial diversity across the fashion stories. Do we have every size model represented? No. We don’t have a size 2, a size 8 and a size 18 in similar dresses in this story. Are some of the models straight and others gay? I have no idea. Are any of the models trans? I have no idea. Are any models MAGA Republicans? It beats the heck out of me — but I doubt it.

Is the December 2022 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Italia discriminatory, because not every box of model characteristics is ticked? Potentially, in the view of some people seeing the images.

Personally, AOC believes that these images are beautiful.

From the same pov, last night AOC wrote that Quentin De Briey’s ‘Black Beauty’ menswear story shot in Senegal featuring primarily model/photographer Malick Bodin delivers “images that are vibrant, joyous, beautiful and a holiday gift for ubuntu-loving spirits.”

I think we can all agree that both Malick Bodin’s HTSI images and the December 2022 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Italia are light years away from Balenciaga’s fashion vision for the holidays. Beyond that reality, I realize just how individualistic our interpretations of media and brand purpose and product are — beyond the obvious. Most must make money to survive.

Sorry for wandering, but I’m listening to a very complicated US Supreme Court debate on discrimination in this moment. ~ Anne