Blogs like The Gloss and Slate have already started calling attention to (read: shitting on) a Vogue shoot featured in the magazine’s February issue. The shoot shows top models posing with various Hurricane Sandy relief and emergency workers, such as members of the Coast Guard and a group of firemen. Annie Leibovitz, who photographed the spread, even saw fit to pose the models in areas that were hit by the hurricane. Because if there’s anything that can cheer up those who have lost their homes, power, or even family and friends, it’s Karlie Kloss in haute couture.

Models bravely risk stiletto water damage

 But don’t worry! Corey Seymour, an editor at Vogue, was quick to assure readers that, “Despite the way it might look, these models are not in any imminent danger.” Of course, the real potential victims of this shoot are those who were actually hit by Hurricane Sandy. For them the storm is not a backdrop; it’s their reality. 

No models were harmed in the making of this sartorial tragedy

While Anna Wintour & Co. might genuinely think they’re gracefully acknowledging the work of everyday heroes, their photo shoot comes across as tasteless, insensitive, and borderline cruel. Meanwhile Vogue’s efforts to raise money for Hurricane Sandy relief have been enormously successful. Of course, this shoot will likely distract from all of the good work that they’ve done.  Hopefully, Vogue will think twice before trying to combine fashion and philanthropy. 

Pretty people make everything better

Photos via Vogue.com