Vogue

For a hundred and eighteen years Vogue has been America's cultural barometer, putting fashion in the context of the larger world- how we dress, live and socialise; what we eat, listen to and watch. From its beginnings till the present date, three central principles have set Vogue apart: a commitment to visual genius, investment in storytelling that puts women at the center of the culture and a selective, optimistic editorial eye. 

The first issue of Vogue saw the light in 1892 when it was launched by Arthur Baldwin Turnure as a weekly newspaper based in New York City. The first issue was published with a cover price of 10 cents. Since its inception the magazine intended to cover New York's social set, their etiquette.. their leisure activities.. their social gatherings.. the places they frequented.. the clothing they wore ... and everyone who wanted to look like them and enter their exclusive circle. It also reviewed books, plays, and music.

Vogue’s first editor was Josephine Redding, who served from 1892 until 1900 and is credited with naming the publication. Condé Montrose Nast- the founder of Condé Nast Publications- bought Vogue in 1909. The board changed it to a women's magazine and started Vogue editions overseas in the 1910s. Its price was also raised. The magazine's number of publications and profit increased under Conde Nast's management. In 1916, when the First World War made Vogue deliveries to the Old World impossible, printing started in England. This decision proved to be successful and 1920 witnessed the first issue of French Vogue. 

In 1932 American Vogue placed a colour photograph on its cover. Since that time the world's leading photographers - Irwin Penn, Guy Burden, Richard Avedon, Norman Parkinson, Helmut Newton and Peter Lindberg - became Vogue contributors. The magazine's number of subscriptions surged during the Great Depression, and again during World War II. In July 1932, American Vogue placed its first color photograph on the cover of the magazine. In the Fifties, the decade known as the magazine's powerful years and Jessica Daves became editor-in-chief. While fashion coverage remained a priority, Daves also elevated the written content of American Vogue, particularly championing the arts and literature.

That era of Vogue came to an end in 1962 when Diana Vreeland joined the magazine first as associate editor, and then, following Daves's departure in December 1962, as editor-in-chief. The magazine began to appeal to the youth by focusing on contemporary fashion and editorials. Vogue also continued making household names out of models- a practice that continued with Suzy Parker, Twiggy, Jean Shrimpton, Lauren Hutton, Veruschka, Marisa Berenson, Penelope Tree and several others.

In 1973 Vogue became a monthly publication. Under editor-in-chief Grace Mirabella, the magazine underwent extensive editorial and stylistic changes in response to changes of its target audience. She was reportedly selected to make the magazine appeal to the working, liberated woman of the Seventies and the magazine changed in terms of interviews, arts coverage and editorials. 

In the Sixties American Vogue under the leadership of Diana Vriland had become the symbol of a new era – more creative, emancipated and sexy. Another important period in American Vogue history began in 1988 when Anna Wintour became its Chief Editor. Her talent, will and efficiency reflected in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ movie had finally turned Vogue did not just reflect fashion trends but effectively shaped them.

As of today, there are more than 22 editions of Vogue: American, Australian, Brazilian, British, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, Taiwanese, Chinese, and Korean, among them. Teen Vogue was launched in 2003.

The mission of Vogue is not just to report fashion trends but to effectively shape them. As a pioneering force in the fashion industry, Vogue is committed to delivering content that defines and elevates the global fashion landscape. The magazine seeks to inspire readers by offering a curated blend of fashion, art, culture, and influential voices, fostering an appreciation for both high fashion and the creativity behind it. Vogue’s mission is to be a beacon for those seeking the latest in style while maintaining an uncompromising standard of quality and relevance.

Vogue is dedicated to being more than a publication; it is a platform for storytelling that merges fashion with deeper societal issues and cultural movements. By collaborating with designers, artists, and thought leaders, the magazine strives to produce content that engages readers beyond aesthetics, inviting them into the conversation on topics like sustainability, diversity, and the evolution of modern fashion. This multi-dimensional approach ensures that Vogue serves as a guide not only to what is trending but also to what is meaningful in today’s world.

At the heart of Vogue's mission is a commitment to inclusivity and progressive representation. The magazine aims to showcase a wide range of voices, promoting fashion as a universal language that transcends boundaries and backgrounds. Through innovative storytelling, immersive multimedia experiences, and impactful editorials, Vogue continuously seeks to engage a global audience, championing the idea that fashion is not just about clothing, but a powerful cultural force that reflects identity, values, and the zeitgeist.

Vogue magazine envisions itself as the definitive voice of fashion, art, and culture, setting the benchmark for editorial excellence and innovation. With a commitment to being at the forefront of the industry, Vogue strives to blend the traditional elegance of haute couture with cutting-edge, contemporary fashion, inspiring its readers to embrace creativity and individuality. The magazine’s vision includes being a platform that not only reflects trends but also influences and propels the fashion world forward.

In its pursuit of this vision, Vogue aims to extend beyond its printed pages, positioning itself as a multimedia powerhouse that connects with audiences through various platforms, including digital content, social media, video, and live events. The brand seeks to offer an immersive and interactive experience that resonates with a global readership, integrating fashion with art, politics, and cultural discourse. Vogue’s vision emphasizes the importance of storytelling and visual artistry that engages, educates, and entertains.

Central to Vogue's vision is the promotion of diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability within the fashion industry. The magazine seeks to celebrate a wide array of voices and perspectives, showcasing talent from all backgrounds and advocating for positive change. Vogue aspires to be a leader in driving conversations that highlight ethical fashion practices and environmental responsibility, setting a standard for conscious and forward-thinking publishing.

Vogue magazine is globally recognized as the most influential publication in the fashion industry, synonymous with setting the highest standards for style and cultural commentary. Since its founding in 1892, Vogue has cemented its status as a leader and trendsetter, shaping the fashion landscape with its pioneering editorials and showcasing work from the world’s most esteemed designers, photographers, and models. The magazine’s ability to blend high fashion with art, politics, and lifestyle has earned it acclaim and a loyal readership, positioning Vogue as a key arbiter of taste and innovation across generations.

The magazine’s impact extends beyond its pages, with international editions published in countries worldwide, adapting its vision to various cultural aesthetics while maintaining its core identity. Vogue's authoritative voice has made it a fixture at major fashion events, including Fashion Weeks in cities like Paris, New York, and Milan, where it reports and influences the season’s most important trends. The brand's commitment to highlighting diverse perspectives and leading conversations on sustainability and social issues further solidifies its recognition as a progressive force in global fashion.

Vogue magazine offers a diverse range of products and services that extend beyond its iconic print publication. The flagship magazine, published monthly and available in both print and digital formats, features meticulously curated fashion editorials, in-depth interviews, and cultural commentary. These issues set the standard for fashion journalism and inspire a global audience with their unique blend of style, innovation, and storytelling. In addition to its core publication, Vogue has established its brand worldwide through localized international editions, ensuring that its voice resonates across cultures and regions.

Beyond the magazine itself, Vogue has expanded into various services, including online content, multimedia experiences, and live events. The Vogue website and digital platforms offer daily updates, exclusive videos, podcasts, and behind-the-scenes features, keeping audiences engaged with real-time fashion news and thought leadership. Signature events such as the annual Vogue Fashion Fund and Vogue Forces of Fashion conference provide a platform for industry leaders, emerging designers, and cultural influencers to connect and share insights. Through these initiatives, Vogue maintains its status as not only a publication but a global fashion authority and cultural institution.