The End of and Era

Yesterday I received a shock announcement from the news world. Kirstie Clements, editor-in -chief of Australian Vogue, is not longer the brains and power behind the most powerful print fashion media. Her resignation has sparked a debate in her editorial choices and capacity. I've read a few comments and it seems that most people feel that this is much anticipated and deserved.

I'm not sure how to feel about this. Yes, I agree that lately I've found myself crossing over to Bazaar because of its relatable content and attractive covers. But I don't think that has anything to do with some kind of incompetence. I think Kirstie has done a great job. In the last few years Vogue has increasingly attempted to distance itself from Bazaar in order to attract a different audience. Naturally, with the lowering of circulation numbers and everything moving online, they needed to rethink. And Vogue chose the older audience. I think it's great that they provided content for the fashionable family woman.

Vogue, to me, was definitely more humble and down to earth. Kirstie was definitely no Devil Wears Prada. She was always the enigmatic amazing chic-mummy. Consciously, I would say that this is exactly what a magazine needs.

But subconsciously, I wouldn't. The choice to buy Bazaar instead of Vogue was never a conscious decision. I found myself drawn to the glossy and hyperreality of Bazaar, and forgetting Vogue altogether. I guess this highlights the essential definition of a magazine: that it's aspirational. As much as I would not like to admit it, it's true. The more distance I had with the content, the more I am inclined to make the purchase.

I think that's the relationship I want with print fashion magazines. I want to hold a piece of seasonal and temporary art (and no, I'm not talking about robotic women in silver plates and Gaga shades...), not a mundane journal of the everyday woman.

But that's just me. I guess I'm the typical twenty-one year old who wants to dream, and doesn't like being told that boundaries exist in dreams.

To Kirstie Clements, you are still a fashion legend and good luck with the future. To Edwina Mccann, looking forward to where you will take Vogue next.