The fashion world is a bustling industry that changes with the seasons. For readers looking to stay on top of the latest trends in fashion and beauty, there’s no better way than by subscribing to a fashion magazine. From traditional print titles to digital-only publications, this guide offers a comprehensive list of the top fashion magazines worth reading. Read on to learn more about the best reads the fashion world has to offer!
1. The Latest In the Fashion World – Top Fashion Magazines
Vogue: From fashion guides to art and culture, Vogue is the OG fashion magazine that stands as one of the most recognizable brands in the industry. Covering everything from haute couture to street style, each month reveals the latest trends and musings from influential tastemakers around the globe.
Harper’s Bazaar: Harper’s Bazaar serves as a visual playground for those looking to explore the creative boundaries of fashion. From art-infused photoshoots with celebrity-studded backdrops to previews of emerging designers, the magazine knows no limits when it comes to luxury.
Elle: Established in 1945, Elle Magazine represents the epitome of style and high-gloss appeal. From Beauty to Lifestyle, each issue contains the latest tips and advice for staying ahead of the fashion curve. Plus, their “24 Hours with a Fashion Star” feature gives readers a sneak peek into the stylish world of influential individuals.
InStyle: InStyle emphasizes the versatility of fashion with its bold and fashion-forward approach. Whether it’s a daring street style look or the how-tos of accessorizing, each glossy page is filled with must-see fashion concepts. InStyle’s “Celebrity Best Dressed” section is sure to excite even the most laid-back fashion enthusiast.
Glamour: Beyond lifestyle and fashion tips, Glamour is dedicated to inspiring and empowering readers with their thought-provoking content. The magazine continues to cover a range of topics including body positivity, racial equality, and equal rights in an effort to motivate individuals in a world that is often draped in judgement.
Essence: As the largest media platform dedicated to African-American culture, Essence Fashion reaches well beyond the boundaries of traditional media. Focusing on Beauty, Fashion, and Style, the powerful magazine has become an integral part of modern culture.
2. Going Beyond the Runway – Discovering the Best Reads in Fashion
Fashion isn’t just something you see strutting down the runways. It has a deep and complex history, which often manifests in literature. Here, we dive into the best reads in fashion that not only provide an entertaining experience, but a fresh perspective too.
- The Beautiful Fall: Fashion, Genius, and Glorious Excess in 1970s Paris – This book transports readers to the glamourous world of 1970s Paris, where icons like Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld were going head to head as they competed to make their mark in fashion. Author Alicia Drake chronicles Lagerfeld and YSL’s friendship, rivalry, and the opulent backdrop of the era.
- Harper’s Bazaar: The Greatest Moments in Fashion – Redefined the way we think about fashion magazines. Harper’s Bazaar logo is “Where Fashion Gets Its Start” and this book celebrates that legacy by tracing the journey from its early debut in 1867 to its current position as a leader in the industry. With over 400 images, this book is definitely a great asset to have in your library.
- Alexander McQueen biography: Blood Beneath the Skin – While some fashion icons live in our memories, the legacy of Alexander McQueen continues to thrive. In Blood Beneath the Skin, Andrew Wilson tells the story of McQueen’s extraordinary life as a designer and an artist. Through his tales of self-destruction, resilience, and soul-searching, readers will gain a better understanding of the late designer’s life and work.
- Models of Influence: 50 Women Who Reset the Course of Fashion – The world of fashion is filled with iconic women, making their marks in history. Models of Influence celebrates 50 of these influential leading ladies and dives into conversations about race and gender that are often pushed aside in the industry. This is the perfect book to flip through and explore these women and their stories.
- Fashion Babylon: Inside the Palace of Dreams – This book sheds light on the fast-paced and highly competitive world of fashion. From designer wars and bitter rivalries to lavish lifestyles and fashion bashes, author Imogen Edwards-Jones takes readers on a wild ride through the hallowed doors of fashion houses.
From harper’s bazar to Alexander McQueen’s life story, these books give readers a peek into the fashion industry. They provide knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration all in one! So grab your favorite read and jump into an exciting world of fashion.
3. From Catwalk to Coffee Table – An Insider’s Guide to the Top Fashion Magazines
Fashion magazines do more than showcase the latest trends. They study, analyze and document every nuance of the industry, making them valuable sources of fashion news and insider knowledge. Here’s our guide to some of the top fashion magazines.
Vogue
- The world’s most influential fashion magazine, Vogue has been around for over a century and is considered the authority on all things couture. Vogue provides an inside look at the world’s most elite designers and provides insight into the development of modern fashion.
Bazaar
- Harper’s Bazaar seeks to redefine luxury, offering high-end fashion with a modern edge. The magazine is beloved for its inspiring editorials, interviews and trend reports and is a favorite of fashion industry professionals.
GQ
- GQ has grown to become the world’s premier men’s fashion magazine, regularly featuring sports and film stars, musicians, and top models on its cover. The magazine covers all aspects of fashion for modern men, from suits and sneakers to hats and accessories.
Elle
- Elle is an international fashion magazine that caters to the needs of modern women. Elle hangs its hat on curating the hottest looks from the biggest runway events, as well as the latest trends. It even features beauty and lifestyle articles for easy reading.
InStyle
- InStyle is the premier celebrity magazine, featuring articles and interviews with the hottest stars in entertainment. InStyle is future-minded, offering readers a modern take on all things fashion.
4. Fashion Reading – The Best Fashion Magazines for Different Occasions
All-Year Staples: Every closet needs some classic magazines that never go out of style. Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar stand out as industry leaders for trend-setting fashion, newsworthy celebrities, and industry names for readers to learn. Their pages provide inspiration and insight into the latest fashion moments.
Style-Conscious Shoppers: Those looking for wallet-friendly wardrobe picks should check out Instyle and InFashion.The glossy pages of these magazines mix high-end fashion looks with more affordable pieces that budding fashionistas can use to dress up any day of the year. Plus, the editor-approved resources make shopping for separates a breeze.
Travel Enthusiasts: When the time comes to jet-set around the world, Conde Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure are must-haves. From culture and art tips to must-visit spots, these issues keep readers educated on the ins and outs of exploring the world. Plus, they include iInvaluable advice on how to pack for any occasion.
International Influentials: For style-minded readers who find themselves dreaming of excursions to places outside the US, the Italian-based Bottega Veneta and L’Officiel give readers full view of the latest fashion trends. Ranges of high-end designer collections and vibrant imagery provide readers with plenty of ideas to tackle any kind of occasion.
Big Day Ready: Special occasions such as weddings, galas, or proms call for an issue of Vogue Bride or WWD Magic. Although these magazines are printed seasonally, they give readers valuable information on how to get creatively ready for the biggest days of their lives. From makeup ideas to fashion-forward looks, these magazines ensure brides-to-be have all the necessary tools for a perfect wedding day.
Street Chic: If interiors and modern streetwear are part of the style routine, GQ and Esquire bring the latest styles and looks to readers. Both magazines provide a varied print selection for individuals who like to stay ahead of current style trends, while also adding a healthy dose of celebrity news, music and culture.
Be it through a magazine or online, to stay up to date in the ever-changing fashion world, there are plenty of options to choose from. As the industry evolves, so too do the magazines, providing readers everywhere with fashion-forward ideas and accessible style tips. Whether you prefer the tangible sensation of turning pages or the ease of the digital world, start your journey through fashion magazines today and become a connoisseur in the industry.
