Sally Singer has carved a remarkable path through the fashion industry, with over two decades at Vogue. Known for her innovative vision, she spearheaded the launch of Vogue Runway and served as the creative director of Vogue.com. However, in a bold career shift, she took the helm as Amazon’s head of fashion direction in 2020, where she embraced a data-centric approach quite distinct from the narrative-driven world of print. After just three years, another new opportunity arose—this time at Art+Commerce, the WME-owned agency.
What attracted Singer to Art+Commerce? For Singer, the challenge was both humbling and exciting. “I have had huge respect for Art+Commerce and seen it almost as a legacy brand of its own,” she remarked in an interview. This agency represents industry staples like renowned fashion photographer Steven Meisel and iconic former Vogue creative director Grace Coddington. Notably, Singer had previously collaborated with emerging talents now on Art+Commerce’s roster, which reinforced her belief that this new role could perfectly align with her extensive industry experience.
Reflecting on her journey, she notes the parallels between her former editorial duties and her current leadership position. Both are deeply rooted in cultivating relationships; her editorial insight distinguishes her from the agents she now leads. This unique perspective allows her to support her agents in navigating the evolving landscape of fashion. As creatives face an increasing demand for distinctively original work, the pressure mounts not only to produce artistically compelling pieces but also to ensure economic viability.
Singer’s transition from Vogue to Amazon—and now to an agency—highlights the intersection of art and commerce in fashion. Under her guidance, Art+Commerce aims to steer its artists through challenges while remaining authentic to their creative identities. The fashion industry has changed dramatically, with less emphasis on magazine editorials and a growing reliance on branded content. This shift means that artists now have diverse platforms to showcase their work. Singer believes that, while traditional venues like magazines still hold value for validation, brands are now actively exploring various digital channels to engage audiences.
A pivotal aspect of her role is the careful curation of talented individuals at Art+Commerce, with a current roster of fewer than 100 artists. This small, elite group fosters a tight-knit community where the artist-agent relationship is akin to a marriage. “When an agent commits to an artist,” Singer explained, “it’s a proper marriage.” This commitment recognizes the ebb and flow of an artist’s career, providing support through various stages, whether they are at the height of their game or engaged in personal projects.
With the expectations surrounding contemporary artists evolving, she acknowledges that today’s creatives demand not just work but also a nurturing relationship focused on their long-term legacy. In an industry traditionally driven by immediate results, this new trend highlights the evolving values of artists who seek meaningful engagements over sheer volume.
Singer’s insights extend beyond managing individual careers; she is acutely aware of the broader challenges facing the fashion landscape. Current uncertainties sparked by shifts in leadership at iconic fashion houses add to the industry’s flux, leaving many professionals feeling apprehensive. Yet, she finds hope in appointing top talents like Sarah Burton at Givenchy and Alessandro Michele at Valentino—signifying a shift back to judgment by merit rather than random selection.
In sum, Sally Singer’s third act at Art+Commerce serves as a fascinating case study in both leadership and adaptability within the intricate tapestry of fashion. Her definition of success balances artistry with profitability, suggesting that while the road ahead may be uncertain, the future of fashion can indeed thrive through innovation and genuine connections.
