The 43rd edition of the Pirelli calendar was released today and it's all change within the calendar's infamous pages. For 2016, female luminaries - some clothed and some stripped down, have replaced the supermodels of yesteryear, with esteemed American photographer, Annie Leibovitz charged with making the new Pirelli vision a reality.

Even more unusual is that these women are not models by trade at all. In fact, Pirelli has selected 13 wonder women from different walks of life to portray their own strong, beautiful versions of femininity and accomplishment.

Leibovitz said: 'When Pirelli approached me, they said they wanted to make a departure from the past. They suggested the idea of photographing distinguished women. After we agreed on that, the goal was to be very straightforward. I wanted the pictures to show the women exactly as they are, with no pretence.'

The women posing for Pirelli include; actress Yao Chen, the first Chinese UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, songstress Patti Smith, tennis player Serena Williams, comedienne Amy Schumer and blogger Tavi Gevinson. Not to mention Yoko Ono, Ava DuVernay and Natalia Vodianova.

The images are a powerful statement for women’s individuality and accomplishments, whatever form they may take, and we hope they will be gracing the walls of garages/offices/surfaces everywhere.

Words by Francesca Donovan