We posted a video and a page scan from Beyonce’s editorial with L’Officiel magazine last week, and it seems the mag is capitalizing on the moment by distributing some outtakes from the shoot [UPDATE: Actually no, what's available now is all the images, not just the page scan]. The fact that Beyonce appeared in blackface has created a lot of controversy, as it always does,  but what’s sort of interesting on a side note is that in all her blackface images she’s really serious and not smiling. Can’t help but wonder if that was where she drew the line, like, it’s one thing if I’m in blackface, but I’m sure as heck not going to be cheesing it up like the stereotype. Via Fashiontography. The entire editorial on the next page.

The creative world’s fascination with blackface continues, this time the twist being its application to a black woman’s face, that being the one belonging to Beyonce. Further irony applies because Beyonce has frequently been accused of lightening her skin so I imagine she must have had some fun turning that equation on its head! Skin color still matters deeply and I imagine until Martin’s dream comes true, this hot button will continue to be pressed. In the meantime, the shoot is beautiful and the hair, clothes and accessories are amazing! And according the mag, this is an anniversary issue with Beyonce’s editorial titled “African Queen,” which also is meant to pay homage to singer Fela Kuti. Funnily enough the copy points out that her face was “voluntarily darkened.” As if ole Bee would let anyone within ten feet of her face, pulling some makeup stunt she hadn’t completely signed off on and approved thoroughly. Via NB.

if you can’t watch the video, there’s a page from the magazine on the next page.