Magazines
Fashion historians rely heavily on magazines in their research of contemporary style. The following titles represent some of the most well-known titles. Click on the magazine cover images to explore their pages for stunning photographs as well as social and historical context.
Vanity Fair
The first version of Vanity Fair was published from 1913 to 1936, it grew out of a men's fashion magazine. The magazine was revived in 1983 in its current state.
Cosmopolitan
The first iteration of Cosmopolitan contained content regarding family life. It eventually evolved into a literary magazine before its most recent format as a women's lifestyle magazine.
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Vogue
American Vogue released its first issue in 1892 with its first issue in color released in 1909. Versions of Vogue are also published in France and Russia.
ELLE
Created in France in the period following WWII, Elle featured stories and advice about the complicated issues women faced. Still a women's magazine today, it is published in countries all over the world.
Marie Claire
Marie Claire originated as a French publication during the years leading up to WWII. The first American edition was published in 1998.
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Harper's Bazaar
The first issue of Harper's Bazaar was published in the United States in1897. Originally a weekly newspaper, it evolved into a monthly magazine geared towards women, with a special emphasis on fashion.