To cash in on their fame and influence, celebrities can now set their sights a little higher than the usual endorsement deals. The last few years have seen a growing number of would-be brand ambassadors announced with a grandiose title that suggests new levels of authority, that of “creative director.” Brands have been adding celebrities to the creative payroll since at least 2009, when Lindsay Lohan began her disastrous and short-lived stint as “artistic advisor” to the French fashion house of Ungaro. But in 2021, the promotions really piled up: British Love Island contestant Molly-Mae Hague parlayed a string of successful collaborations into a creative directorship at PrettyLittleThing; Kendall Jenner took on the role at luxury e-commerce site FWRD; Cardi B joined Playboy as its first creative director in This story is from Kinfolk Issue Forty-Four Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 49 Karin Mamma Andersson Inside the moody, mysterious world of Sweden’s preeminent painter. Arts & Culture Issue 49 Jenny Odell The acclaimed author in search of lost time. Arts & Culture Issue 49 Amalie Smith The Danish arts writer finding clarity between the lines. Arts & Culture Issue 49 Ryan Heffington Meet the man bringing choreography, community and queer joy to the desert. Arts & Culture Issue 49 Nell Wulfhart Advice from a decision coach. Arts & Culture Fashion Issue 49 A World of Difference A fun lesson in cultural faux pas.
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