Fashion Trends: Magazine Magic or Cultural Copycats? An Analysis of Vogue Magazine’s Influence on Societal Trends

Fashion, fashion magazines, and fashion advertisements have been around for decades, each competing for the finest of models to showcase the new desired body type or latest fashion statement. One of the most recognizable and distinguished fashion magazines, Vogue, has proven to be top in the industry for their innovation in both fashion knowledge as well as ability to articulate creative expression through photographical illustration. Founded in 1892 by Arthur Turnure, Vogue has made it their mission to continually push the limits and inspire out of the box fashion trends inspired by people, cultures, and trends all over the world. With the best photographers and illustrators in the business, Vogue has the ability to capture the best of even the most outrageous of fashion ideas, which in turn has an influence over the general population exposed to these extravagant images. Many question, however, just how influential fashion magazines, such as Vogue, are to opinions regarding controversial topics in society. Do these innovative graphics and designs actually have a cultural influence over the way society thinks or feels regarding a particular topic, or are they simply producing images and topics as a means to sell merchandise? However, significant evidence in history has proven Vogue an influential component to challenging previously accepted norms, and thus making them a proponent for change in society. Through an in-depth analysis of Vogue throughout history, the argument can be made that not only do fashion magazines such as Vogue inspire fashion through innovation, they also confront and discuss controversial topics with class and virtuosity