Jill Kortleve radiates self-acceptance. The opposite of “it’s not you, it's me,” she’s a 90s baby, big-browed, body positive. Our new super, she puts the C in curve. Deep. Real. Fecund. Going her own way.

With her Surinamese, Indonesian, Dutch and Indian heritage, Kortleve grew up in Holland, where she sat outside the conventional beauty standards. It is almost poetic the way those who choose to find peace within themselves, who strive to live beyond the reflections of themselves in the eyes of others, are those that represent most for us all.

It was when Kortleve walked the CHANEL Fall Winter runway in 2020 in a black power suit she became a pioneer; a role she took on with gratitude and love. It’s that same attitude that makes her this moment. The original vision for our first ever Beauty Annual, this special issue with CHANEL sees us interpret ‘Becoming’ – a version of beauty that is accessible to all.

These pages chart the conversations we have with our ourselves, about how to be ourselves. Those within them tell stories of creative expression and personal growth and champion evolution, grounded in the knowledge that we never truly ever arrive.

Becoming is a courageous act: it is radical acceptance, resilience and personal artistry. It is finding our own kind of awesomeness through a way of living that brings truth beyond our inner realm.

May this issue inspire you to come into existence, in your own way, on your terms. To live deeply. Forever yourself, eternally becoming.

Experience the 'Becoming' issue in its entirety this July, available on newsstands from Monday 29 July 2024, and through our online shop. Find a stockist near you.

PHOTOGRAPHY Misha Taylor @ Chris Boals Artists 

FASHION Charlotte Agnew  

MODEL Jill Kortleve @ IMG 

HAIR Jacob Kajrup 

MAKEUP William Bartel @ Artlist Paris 

SET DESIGN Natalie Turnbull and Carol Vasques 

PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANTS Chris Varas Matta, Anthony Peyper and Thomas Boisson 

STYLIST’S ASSISTANT Franca Chase and Ariane Laval 

MAKEUP ASSISTANT Agnes Obis