Irina Shayk and Mona Tougaard Pose in Lingerie for Vogue France

Irina Shayk and Mona Tougaard are the stars of Vogue France’s double December–January issue. For the main winter cover, the models posed in minimalist Christian Dior lingerie sets, shot by photographer Karim Sadli. Styling was done by Alastair McKimm, the magazine’s new fashion & image director-at-large.

This issue marks the first “anniversary” of Claire Thomson-Jonville as head of editorial content at Vogue France. Over the past 12 months, she has already featured Loli Bahia, Natasha Poly, Addison Rae, Anok Yai, Miley Cyrus, Gisele Bündchen, and Kim Kardashian on the cover — and she closes the year with the Shayk–Tougaard duo.

But the fashion community’s reaction has been lukewarm. On forums, readers compared the new cover to Carine Roitfeld’s archive issues — particularly the 2008 edition featuring Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss. Only now, many say, the new version lacks that signature “spark.”

“It looks like AI generation,” wrote one commenter.

“Feels like a 2008 cover remake, but without the energy, without the luxury, without the festive mood,” noted others.

The visuals also drew criticism: “The blue background kills the luxury feeling. A December–January issue needs shine, sharpness, celebration. Here — no effect, no excitement.”

Despite its star power, the winter cover of Vogue France has become one of the most debated — largely because of its styling. The fashion community expected far more glamour and emotion from a holiday issue.