With a limited number of fashion publications offered at the average magazine stand, it is easy to fall into the mindset that Vogue is the only source of style news and inspiration. In actuality, there is a world of lesser-known fashion magazines from countries around the world. Most are not published monthly, but they allow for a bolder, more uncommon view on fashion as opposed to the same source everyone else views. These magazines provide an alternative perspective to the mainstream publications and are full of gorgeous, inspirational images. Here is a look at some of the most unique fashion publications.
Dansk, a fashion magazine based out of Copenhagen, Denmark, launched in 2002 with the tagline “The world’s most independent fashion magazine.” It is released biannually in over 20 countries around the world. Currently on its 28th issue, Dansk molds international fashion with new Scandinavian style. The magazine acts as a platform for Scandinavian designers so they can reach out to the wider fashion community. In the most recent issue, fashion features editor Moussa Mchangama speaks with Scandinavian designer Anne Sofie Madsen. It is the perfect cross between pop culture and counterculture.
Bullett magazine is a quarterly fashion magazine that is produced right in New York City. Now at its eighth issue, Bullett released their romance issue for fall 2012 this past September. The magazine is very interview-heavy with conversations with London-based womenswear designer Lucas Leclere, singer and visual artist Cody Critcheloe and actress Rebel Wilson from the film “Pitch Perfect.” The magazine refuses to recycle the same overused celebrities that American magazines use and instead works to acknowledge lesser-known stars. The interviews read more like a story than an interview and make a personal connection with the person of interest. While the magazine is heavily fashion influenced, it does contain articles about music, culture and art. Bullettmedia.com, the magazine’s website, hosts more articles and exclusive video content with Pharrell Willams, Elizabeth Olsen and more.
We Are Different Magazine started in France in 1999. WAD Magazine is a quarterly production that consistantly features artistic photos on the cover rather than celebrities. The magazine is a celebration of street culture and style as opposed to focusing solely on what is seen on the runway. Stories feature graffiti, personal style and updates on the French fashion world. The magazine is published in French, but the average New Yorker can enjoy the endless pages of visually stimulating photography and artistry.
“It almost looks like a look book of outfits, and the artsy photographs are more controversial,” said Alex Heinz, a Gallatin freshman who saw the three indie magazines.
Victoria Marino, a Gallatin freshman, enjoyed the overall aesthetics.
“Some photos are similar to other fashion magazines, but some use unusual models that go against conventional beauty patterns,” she said.
Find these indie magazines and many more at Magazine Cafe and Around the World Fashion Publications.
A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday, Oct. 24 print edition. Kendall Hill is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].