Dakota and Elle Fanning Cover W, Talk Fashion
It's a big month for sisters, it seems.
First Vogue named Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen the Best-Dressed Siblings of 2011.
Now, Dakota and Elle Fanning (who came in second on that list) are having their moment with a December cover shoot for W featuring gorgeous gold Chantilly lace gowns from Valentino Haute Couture.
Inside, a high-fashion shoot sees the blonde teens playing dress-up for lensman Mario Sorrenti in chic toppers and little black dresses from Chanel; vintage-inspired silk tops by Dior; textured Giambattisti Valli gowns; a wispy Givenchy tulle number; and, for Elle, a sequined dress from her beloved Rodarte.
Fittingly, style also plays a role in the accompanying interview.
"I was always into fashion because my mom has always been interested in fashion," Dakota says of modeling for Marc Jacobs at age 12.
"She majored in fashion merchandising in college, and it’s always been something we have in common. When I did that first campaign for Marc Jacobs, I really wasn’t old enough to wear the clothes. He made all the clothes from the runway in my size. I still have them."
"When I found out that I was invited to the Chanel show—that was the loudest I’ve ever screamed in my life," admits Elle. "That was the best day of my life. It was my first fashion show, and I know every model by name. It was just the best experience ever!"
Photo: Mario Sorrenti / courtesy of W
Sister act: The Fannings give each other some lip in W.
Of course, it hasn't all been smooth sailing as far as style is concerned. The older Fanning recalls making her dad drive her home so she could change out of her school uniform, and losing out on roles because of her hair.
"I had really short, wispy hair, and the girls with perfect long, straight hair with bangs and a butterfly clip would always get picked," she says of her childhood auditions. "Finally, I got some more hair and started getting roles."
For now, the girls are coming to terms with living apart as Dakota starts college ... though, according to her kid sis, that may not be such a bad thing.
"She is a nice older sister," Elle says.
"But it’s not like we always get along. Now that she’s going to college, it’s different. I went into her room at home in California, and all her clothes were gone! Her closet was empty! I don’t get to go in there and steal clothes anymore. It’s really strange. It’s sort of like she’s off making a movie, but this time she’s not coming back."
We see some FedExing in their future.
For more Dakota and Elle Fanning, visit W online and pick up the December issue, on sale soon.
Meanwhile, read about the drama Dakota Fanning's Marc Jacob ad has caused in England.
