Since Nina Garcia took the helm as editor-in-chief of ELLE in 2017, she has made significant strides in curating a lineup of influential personalities from the realms of fashion, culture, and entertainment to grace the magazine’s covers. In 2026, captivating figures such as Raye, Odessa A’zion, and Sofia Coppola have made appearances as cover stars. This month, Olivia Dean joins their ranks, gracing the second selection of covers for the April 2026 issue of ELLE. Captured by renowned photographer Felix Cooper, the artist behind the hit single “Man I Need” showcases her style across two vibrant covers. With fashion direction by ELLE‘s own Alex White, Dean dons cutting-edge pieces from iconic brands Balenciaga and Chanel, reflecting the latest trends in haute couture.
Forum Reactions on Olivia Dean’s Cover
The reception among fashion enthusiasts on theFashionSpot forums has been varied. Some users have expressed admiration for Garcia’s choices, asserting that she seems more attuned to contemporary culture than other fashion editors. One commenter noted, “It’s incredible how much more in tune Nina Garcia is than Anna or her successor.” They praised ELLE for selecting stars that resonate with modern audiences, suggesting a creative edge that has eclipsed Vogue.
However, not all opinions align. Another user raised concerns about the magazine’s direction, suggesting that the choice of cover stars often correlates too closely with mainstream success or upcoming projects—indicating a lack of a distinct editorial vision. “It feels like they are making the most predictable PR moves,” they noted.
Conversely, some commenters have expressed enthusiasm for Dean’s cover, with one user stating their preference for her shoot over Coppola’s, citing the use of vibrant colors and a striking red sequined Chanel dress as highlights. Even those unfamiliar with Dean’s music found the styling impressive and the hairdo captivating.
On the flip side, critiques have emerged regarding the presentation of Dean herself, with some feeling that her unique appeal was lost in the shoot, rendering her somewhat bland for the cover. “They’ve managed to make such a beautiful and enigmatic woman look quite dull and plain,” lamented a forum member.
As Olivia Dean finds her place in the spotlight through her appearance on the cover of ELLE, this moment represents a significant blend of artistry and fashion. The discerning voices of the fashion community will continue to shape the conversation as they engage with this latest issue.
