Lupita Nyong’o is undoubtedly having the best year of her life. The Oscar winning actress, becoming the face of LancĂ´me, graced the cover of People, getting cast for her new role in Star Wars and now her first cover of Vogue for July 2014. Her career on an upwards spiral is an inspiration to many and a dream come true for the 31 years old actress. Â Who is to say what is to come next?


When she was growing up in Kenya, Nyong’o says, acting “wasn’t a viable career path. It’s not seen as a prestigious profession.” Rodarte metallic lace dress with sequins. Judy Geib Plus Alpha diamond–and–gold filigree earrings. Fred Leighton amber necklaces. Photographed in the tearoom at the Riad Madani.

Nyong’o in the entrance hall of Marrakech’s exclusive Ksar Char-Bagh resort, a chic retreat tucked away in the city’s palm grove. Vera Wang Collection copper trapeze dress. Ann Demeulemeester necklace. Pebble London ring. Casadei for Prabal Gurung heels, worn throughout.
Fashion Editor: Phyllis Posnick

“It just feels like the entertainment industry exploded into my life,” Nyong’o says, here soaking in a rose-filled bathtub at the hotel El Fenn. Janis by Janis Savitt silver cuff. Prada red satin heels.

Beauty Note:  Radiant skin steals the spotlight. Bolstered by royal jelly and hazelnut peptides, Lancôme’s Nutrix Royal Body Cream goes on like silk.

As she ponders her next role, focus and intensity remain Nyong’o’s most fiercely guarded qualities. T by Alexander Wang knit top. Jonas Studio earring. Yossi Harari corset cuffs. Photographed in the garden courtyard at Riad Madani. In this story: hair, Bok-Hee; makeup, Mark Carrasquillo. Produced by Marie Hu for North Six Europe.

Lupita Nyong’o wearing a J.Crew swimsuit, Yossi Harari cuffs, and Casadei for Prabal Gurung heels. On set in Marrakech.
Photographed by Mikael Jansson, Vogue, July 2014


Since her award-winning turn in 12 Years a Slave, Nyong’o’s breathtaking talent and beauty have drawn admirers from every corner of the planet. Jonathan Saunders check-and-floral printed dress. Ann Demeulemeester by Elvis Pompilio fine straw hat. Me&Ro necklaces.