Behind every stunning cover and unforgettable feature lies a tapestry of stories, challenges, and triumphs. As 2024 comes to a close, the ELLE editorial team reflects on the moments that left a lasting impression—from celebrating personal milestones on set to immersing themselves in the cultural richness of destinations like Kyoto and Rome. Here are the memories that shaped our year, and the lessons we’re carrying into 2025.
Charmaine Ho, Editor-in-Chief
Every issue we work on comes with its own backstories and hilarity, but for me, the most memorable is our December 2024 cover with JJ Lin. We had been discussing the possibility of having him on our cover for a couple of months—but circumstances were just always a little bit off ... until the very last minute. The stars suddenly aligned and everything fell seamlessly into place. I couldn't be more proud of the work that the team did to pull it off, and to have two extended print runs completely sell out is still something that still boggles my mind.
Jasmine Alimin, Deputy Editor
The best event for me was the launch of Weekend Max Mara’s Treasures of Japan Pasticcino Bags in Kyoto. Unlike hectic work trips, this was thoughtfully planned to let us soak in Kyoto’s culture. We stayed at the serene Fufu Hotel and explored iconic spots like the Golden Temple, Daikakuji Temple, and the Bamboo Forest. The food was exceptional, with meals at top restaurants like Kikusui and Kyoyamato. A highlight was visiting a traditional textile factory to see how the fabrics for the bags were made. The trip ended with a magical dinner at Chishakuin Temple, complete with a geisha performance.
Jeffrey Yan, Fashion Director
One of the work experiences I was most looking forward to was going back to Milan Fashion Week. After five years away, the intensity to which the celebrity mania has grown took me by surprise, with the front row often overshadowing the runway. But then you get to watch a show like Prada’s spring/summer 2025—Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons’ stunning treatise on individuality and a rebuke against the algorithm—and you remember why we do what we do in the first place.
Navin Pillay, Digital Editor
While I have always worked behind the scenes to produce covers, digital covers, and commercial projects, my most memorable work event has to be producing and creatively directing our June 2024 cover featuring YEJI, YUNA, RYUJIN, and CHAERYEONG of ITZY in Seoul—on my birthday, no less. I’ve always considered working on my birthday a gift—a poignant reminder that I get to do what I love for a living. It wasn’t without its challenges, but thanks to the support of my brilliant producer and friend, Esther Kim, we created a truly stunning cover.
A close second would be my trip to Rome with Fendi for the launch of Fendi Fragrances, marking the house’s centenary. I have a deep appreciation for architecture, history, and storytelling that weaves everything together—and this experience had all that and more, beautifully tied with a Fendi ribbon.
Valecia Lee, Senior Fashion Writer
My most memorable work moment would undoubtedly be the October 2024 cover shoot featuring Fann Wong. It was my first time assisting on a cover shoot, and as someone who grew up watching Channel 8 dramas, meeting Fann was a beautifully nostalgic and captivating experience. Beyond the thrill of working with a childhood icon, it was an invaluable learning opportunity to observe how various creatives collaborate to produce a cover we’re all still immensely proud of.
Megan La Faber, Senior Writer (Beauty & Lifestyle)
There were many highlights, but my most memorable work moment this year has to be covering the Singapore Grand Prix. It was an intense yet exhilarating few days, meeting the incredible individuals both on the track and behind the scenes, exploring the Paddock Club and the Paddock itself, and witnessing the action up close. It was a whirlwind week, and every blister from navigating the park circuit in heels to find the nearest exit was absolutely worth it.
Gagandeep Singh, Associate Art Director
The shoot with Devin Halbal—hands (and boots) down! Yes, the icon, the legend, the queen who cries on the train and updates us about it within the hour. Devin was a dream to shoot, her energy utterly magnetic, and our hour-long post-shoot chat was the perfect way to wrap up the afternoon.
We talked about her dreams, her life before "hal.baddie," and her wildest fan encounters. But what struck me most was how uncannily similar our perspectives on the world were. My key takeaway from our time together? That connection is just a conversation away.
This is the energy I’m carrying into 2025—here’s to a year of openness, vulnerability, and building meaningful connections.