Independent magazines and the people that create them
27th September 2022
Q&A with John Porrett – Unique Magazine’s Managing Director
11th October 2022
W magazine – a title that blends fashion and culture
For a magazine that’s been a continuous reference in pop culture (AKA Gossip Girl, Sex in the City, and Keeping up with the Kardashians) it is unclear and a little unfathomable that it took me until the 50th issue to flick through the pages.
But did it live up to the hype?
For me… yes.
The 50th Anniversary
The 50th Anniversary issue encapsulates just how influential the title is and enables readers to understand the sheer number of momentous moments the magazine has had. To really celebrate the people responsible for W throughout the decades, the editor’s letter shares details of previous contributors, who have come back to produce work once again.
The collection of front covers and photographs in the Fifty Years, Fifty Moments spread share words from the creatives behind the work or the individual it captures. These snippets of opinions vary from actor and entrepreneur, Gwyneth Paltrow, and her thoughts on her 2004 pregnancy front cover to photographer Michael Thompson, who photographed Kate Moss in 1993.
The theme of this issue is supermodels, from household names (such as Christy Turlington Burns and Cindy Crawford) to new and upcoming faces in the industry. For anyone that grew up idolising such public figures, this editorial includes quotes to share the personalities and ethos of the models, even Naomi Campbell, who explains how she uses her position in fashion to help aspiring designers get the “attention they deserve”
A prime example of W capturing nostalgia and culture is My Life in Parties: Through the Decades, a feature for four celebrities (Stephen Burrows, Cornelia Guest, Jessica Craig-Martin, and Paris Hilton) to share photographs and explanations from their party eras.
Cons
As expected with ANY popular title – there is a high ratio of advertisements from high-end brands.
Overall
One of the standout elements of W is the focus on contributors, as rather than a static and monotonous page that details their position, they are asked quick-fire questions related to the issue. This recognition makes every turn of the page more special as readers know a little more about the creatives behind the work.
Ultimately, W feels like an ageless magazine that will never be irrelevant. The type of title deserving of everyone’s attention, coffee table, and admiration.
Although I’ll be 76, I can get behind the words of current editor-in-chief, Sara Moonves – “Here’s to the next 50 years!”
