“Positivity is such a precious commodity right now, but I felt something close to pure joy in recent days,” the famously stoic editor-in-chief, 70, began in a piece posted on Vogue’s website on Monday.

Wintour was partly referring to designer Ralph Lauren’s recent $10 million donation to COVID-19 relief efforts, which included contributions to the Emergency Assistance Foundation, the World Health Organization and the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund’s coronavirus fund, A Common Thread.

“My emotions, like yours I’m sure, are fairly close to the surface,” the editrix wrote, “but I’m not afraid to admit that I broke down on the phone with Ralph when he called to give me the incredible news about his gift.”

Wintour went on to laud the efforts of others in the fashion community, from the many American designers who have pivoted to making PPE including masks and gowns to Donatella Versace, Miuccia Prada and Giorgio Armani’s donations to Italian hospitals. “I have never been more proud of our industry,” she wrote.

The EIC concluded her missive on a note of solidarity, emphasizing the importance of human connection (whether via phone or FaceTime) and “the power of creativity” in these trying times.

“I know that we have challenges ahead — and please can everyone remember to stay home and be safe — but I also know we can get through it together, and even find moments of joy along the way.”