Fashion Aficionada: Elle Fanning for Marc by Marc Jacobs

A few weeks ago, I was flipping though the August issue of Teen Vogue when I came across one of the ads featured in the Fall 2011 Marc by Marc Jacobs campaign. Upon first glance, I LOVED it. I loved the model’s somber expression. I loved how her blonde hair, blowing softly in the wind, framed her pale face. I loved how the eerie outdoor setting contrasted with her sallow skin tone. And most of all, I loved the model’s carefully coordinated ensemble, which spotlighted a red printed, mid-length dress with a tie at the waist. Donning a red leather bag, patent deep-red shoes and calve grazing beige socks, she exuded a natural and effortless look. Everything about the ad was spot on.

An exquisite ad that relies on a subdued palette and autumn hues to reflect the upcoming cooler seasons.

While I was not surprised that Marc Jacobs had pulled off yet another noteworthy ad, I was surprised to learn that the model was Elle Fanning. At only 13, Elle appears years beyond her age. Without her signature toothy grin, dorky (but cute) glasses and one of her sweet, youthful dresses, my brain didn’t even register that it was her. Granted, it could be that my familiarity with Elle is limited to my knowledge that she is Dakota Fanning’s younger sister. And, although I am aware that Elle has starred in a slew of movies, I have yet to see any of them (and thus wouldn’t have recognized her anyway).

Nevertheless, this ad (shot by photographer Juergen Teller) is fantastic. The more I think about it, Elle is the perfect face for Marc by Marc Jacobs. Following in Dakota’s footsteps, who also modeled for Jacobs when she was 13 (and is currently the face for his fragrance “Oh Lola!”), Elle is representing the age group that often gets ignored and overlooked in high profile fashion spreads.

Elle appears so mature in this photograph. I’m loving her wide length trousers and fur topped coat.

While some critics have bashed Marc Jacobs and Miu Miu for using young girls for their ad campaigns, I see nothing wrong with it. Neither Elle nor Hailee Steinfeld (14, current face for Fall 2011 Miu Miu campaign), are dressed provocatively or inappropriately. Revealing next to no skin and wearing nothing skin tight, both of these actresses model clothing that is age appropriate and tasteful. The fact that both Elle and Hailee are fresh faces in the Hollywood spectrum and world of high fashion makes these campaigns all the more alluring. Tired of the same old models and overdone celebrities, it’s refreshing to see two young and talented actresses making their debut in the fashion world.

Yet another impeccable look for fall.

Appearing in magazines such as Teen Vogue (a magazine aimed toward girls as young as 10), it makes sense that Marc Jacobs would select a young model. For girls who aspire to obtain careers in the fashion industry (whether it be modeling, fashion journalism, styling, etc.) or are inspired by the art of fashion, Elle and Hailee come across as relatable. Not only are they marketable to teeny boppers, but young adults such as myself, also find the clothing appealing and think highly of the models. And for those who feel the Marc by Marc Jacobs line is “too young,” there is always the Marc Jacobs line which tends to be more fashion-forward.

Superstar in the making?