Biography
One of the most influential figures in fashion media, Stephen Gan serves as editor-in-chief of V Magazine and VMAN, creative director of Elle US, former creative director of US Harper’s Bazaar and also co-founder of Visionaire.
Gan spent over 15 years as the creative director of Harper’s Bazaar, before replacing Elle creative director Ruba Abu-Nimah in January 2018.
Gan was awarded the Creative Visionary Award by the CFDA in 2001 following his appointment at Harper’s Bazaar. A collaborator with Carine Roitfeld on fashion editorial and films, he was creative director of CR Fashion Book, a four year partnership that ended in 2016.
Gan also consults on advertorial campaigns with luxury brands including Dior and Michael Kors.
A native of the Philippines, Gan moved to New York in the early 80's pursuing a degree in photography at Parsons New School of Design. A friendship forged with legendary New York Times photographer Bill Cunningham introduced the young creative to Annie Flanders, then editor of Details magazine, where Gan served as junior fashion editor prior to its acquisition by Condé Nast in 1989.
Gan co-founded Visionaire in 1991 with model Cecilia Dean and Parsons alumni James Kaliardos. The magazine provided free rein for artists and became known for showcasing innovative and groundbreaking images. Now a coveted fashion publication, Visionaire releases three issues a year with previous contributions from fashion heavyweights such as Tom Ford and Karl Lagerfeld. Gan launched V magazine in 1999 as a more accessible publication featuring pop-cultural editorials and ready-to-wear designs. VMAN, a quarterly men’s magazine, was launched shortly after in 2003.
In 2014 Gan parted ways with the Visionaire, but continues to run V magazine and VMAN.