Vogue Thailand Explains Naomi Campbell’s Lighter Skin on Controversial November Cover [Photos]

Vogue Thailand has come under fire after photographer Marcin Tyszka first posted the preliminary version of his November Issue cover, featuring Naomi Campbell. Many observers noted that the supermodel’s skin had been heavily airbrushed and made to appear lighter.

With the power of social media, the cover spread rapidly and cries of racism came from all over. In only 24 hours, Tyszkar released a statement saying his choices were simply stylistic.

The publication has since released the final version of the cover (above, right), which features Naomi quite a few shades darker than what was originally released (above, left).

The Fashion Spot reached out to Vogue Thailand for comment, and their Editor in Chief, Kullawit Laosuksri, sent back a statement. His remarks:

“The cover shot of Naomi Campbell was taken in Paris by Polish photographer Marcin Tyszka, whose signature style is pastel, with light (natural) soft colours created by using lighting techniques and make-up for his results.  In his own words he explains, “Naomi is always super sexy – our idea was to create the Prada ‘60s look – more natural– pastel – sweet – soft.”

It was an incredible opportunity for me to work with such an icon as Naomi Campbell and we were so pleased that she agreed to grace our November cover. We chose Naomi because she represents a strong, intelligent and beautiful woman and we did not enhance or need to enhance her looks in any way.

We at Vogue Thailand believe in the universal beauty of women and I have had a chance to work with so many gorgeous women such as Liu Wen, Carolyn Murphy, andCoco Rocha as our cover models, and to be able to add Naomi into our portfolio is something that I am very proud of.”

Vogue Thailand insists it didn’t intend to make Naomi look ‘whiter’ or ‘pale’ and claims that the supermodel herself decided on wearing blue contact lenses for the shoot. Either way, it’s a beautiful shot.