THR: Micah McDonald, KiKi Layne, Wayman Bannerman, Regina King
I loooove the way they have KiKi Layne styled for this. But some of the other covers have simpler backdrops, and I wish this one did, too. Regina King gets really lost over there -- something that should NEVER happen to that fine lady -- and I'm feeling claustrophobic. Her outfit also kind of matches the decor, in a way that does not work for me. Oh the irony of not liking the styling on the issue devoted to those who do it.
Cheryl Konteh and Idris Elba
Cheryl is new, breaking in at No. 25 on the list. The site credited her with Kate Winslet as well, but Kate hasn't gone anywhere this year, so it's chiefly her work with Idris that got her on. Welcome! More Idris, please, Cheryl.
Jessica Paster and Emily Blunt
I feel like these two were given very different directions here, somehow. Emily -- who looks fabulous in that -- is up there, all, "This is the only prom dress I could possibly have worn, I WOULD NOT stand for anything less," and Jessica's sitting down on that cube like, "Just stay cool, Prom only happens once, do NOT think about how you're going to pay for it."
Julia Roberts and Elizabeth Stewart
These two always seem very well-matched, in part because they do look like long-lost siblings. I love Elizabeth's whole outfit on this cover. I aspire to her casual-chic ease. Julia's dress is... aggressive. I want that bird to stop looking at me.
Mahershala Ali and Van Van Alonso
This is also Alonso's first time on the list (No. 17), on the strength of her work with Mahershala. I mean... he DOES always look interesting, so I can't argue this. In this photo they look like the most intimidating hipster couple imaginable, the one you stare at in a restaurant and wonder if they are exhausting or awesome.