Addressing Representations

During my research I have noticed that most of the models portrayed in fashion magazines are
young female adults (18-30). The genre for this magazine usually includes new trends, styles,
designers and make-up.


One example of how models are already represented in the the fashion magazine industry would
be their “perfection.” The magazine interprets their beauty are portrayed as “perfect” with is a
common stereotype for this genre of magazine. All models that are seen in fashion magazines
are shown as skinny or having a perfect body because advertisers have appealed to women’sinsecurities in hopes of selling them the solution. The models can also be seen as “fake”
because of the photoshop thats done to the picture. Although the models are naturally posing and don’t look uncomfortable in the way they are posing. But even though some magazines try to give a
more “natural look” by not wearing that much makeup, their skin is still airbrushed and their teeth
are most likely still whitened.


Another example in which models are represented in fashion magazines depend on the target audience. For instance, some of these magazines that are targeted for male audiences can
have a completely different interpretation because it can be seen as models using their sexuality
to target their audience. They are more sexually exploited because of their audience consists
mostly of males. But if the target audience are females of a higher class and middle aged, the
models would be dressed or seen as more respectable, formal and natural. Models are also
seen as being happy all the time because in all the magazine covers they seem like that.


Most of these representations are accurate because of the way models are chosen for the
fashion magazines. All of them are tall, beautiful and extremely skinny. I understand why fashion
magazines require that for their magazines because without that it is unlikely for their magazine
to sell. It’s more likely for the audience to buy a magazine if they are posed in a way to inspire
their audience to try to look like they do. Promoting new trends and styles that look good on the
models convince the audience to buy it and try it out. Even if the target audience is males, it is
evident that the magazine won't sell if the models don’t look or dressed certain type of way.

Even though I don't believe all of these representations are correct or ethical, magazines wouldn't sell because it wouldn't target what the audience wants. Some representation characteristics I would challenge would be the body image of the models. If models were more secure with their own body image and demand that their picture would be published without photoshopping, everyone else will follow suit and more women and girls will realize that there is no such thing as “perfect” beauty. Fashion models having the “perfect” body image can lead to include eating disorders, depression, substance abuse, and health problems for both the models and teenagers that look up to those models. Some representation characteristics that I would retain would include the way models always look happy because it gives the magazine good and positive vibes that can lead to the target audience to buy.

And the research continues...

Another genre that interests me is the lifestyle magazine. This could be a second option for my project because lifestyle magazines cover a wide range of topics and issues. While I was researching this genre, I realized that this type of magazine includes a number of men's magazines, women's magazines and magazines about health and fitness, tourism, leisure, fashion, decorating, or culture.


Some of the typical production conventions for this genre includes there being only one picture on the front page taking up most of the cover. The masthead of the magazine connotes a higher class which suggests to readers that they will be finding out the most important and necessary things. The slogan does the same because it implies that the tips and recommendations are justas high quality as their magazine. The teasers in the front of the page gives a variety of content and mentions some of the names of famous people which causes readers to buy the magazine. Usually the people used in the front color look towards the camera as a way to attract audience and make it more personal by making it feel like they’re looking straight at you. Colors that are usually seen in this genre are light colors because they are positive and aesthetic.






In the Health magazine it is clear that it embodies the lifestyle genre because it is focused on living a full, healthy and balanced life. The model is staring directly at the camera to catch the customer's attention and the colors in this magazine are seen are bright to give of good vibes. There are cover lines are used to advertise the articles in the magazine and entice the audience.




This magazine also embodies this genre because focus on the five key areas for creating a healthy lifestyle such as the following nutrition, fitness, and attitude. The colors in this magazine are more pastel but they also fit because those colors are perceived as peaceful and positive. The central image also used to represent the magazine and what it is about. The pages that are filled with text and are divided into columns usually convey this genre because it’s like a `sneak peek´ of an inside article or story.







Other lifestyle magazines:

Research, research, research...

Researching different types of genres is the only thing that has been on my mind right now. As I said in my last post the fashion is one of my passions which is why I have been reading and taking notes about all the research I have found and i would now like to share what I have found will all of you guys.

Typical features found in fashion magazines include articles about numerous pages on new trends, styles and designers. This genre usually includes female fashion, make-up, glamour. Street fashion consists of a trendy and cool look for the younger generation (aged 16-30) which is generally seen in major urban centers. Most magazines show urban culture which gives it a very modern look and the front cover of almost all fashion magazines usually has a well known celebrity or model.

Models/celebrities are usually use direct contact towards the camera as a way to attract audience and make it more personal by making it feel like they’re looking straight at you. The angles and shots taken for these magazines are usually full shots or mid shots to show the different body gestures. The lighting used is fashion magazines can be portrayed as bright bringing a feeling of freshness, happiness and capture the attention of our audience. In many covers, there is a strong color to contrast a portion of a subject adding a “pop” and “edge” to the magazine. The masthead of the magazine is often bold and bright to catch the reader's eye and persuade them to read it. It fits the genre of the magazine with its colors and font style. There is always a color theme that matches with the genre.

Since the fashion genre is targeted towards young females, a major part of how the
genre is marketed is through media and the internet. This generation is so involved
with social media that marketing magazines through social media applications such as
Instagram and Twitter is the best idea. Many fashion magazines are finding success by
leveraging blog and user-generated content (UGC) on social media to drive audience
engagement and create a click-and-shop experience making it easier for the audience.
User-generated content uses customer insights, websites, social and search analytics to
understand your audience’s behavior that will in the future help you distribute the fashion
magazine that is personal towards the customers.

The Vogue magazine is fashion and lifestyle magazine covering many topics including fashion, beauty, culture, living, and runway. It is considered to be teach readers how to assume a chic and modern appearance. The masthead of this magazine cover is bold and matches the color theme. The model is staring directly at the camera to catch the customer's attention.

The Elle magazine is a worldwide lifestyle magazine of French origin that focuses on fashion, beauty, health, and entertainment. The international fashion magazine is for sophisticated, independent women with a strong sense of personal style. The hottest designers and latest fashions on the street and on the runways can be found in the Elle Magazine. Elle is the world's best selling fashion magazine. The model, Cara Delevingne, promotes the magazine because she is very well known.

Other fashion magazines: 

                  

The Start of it All

Hi! My name is Andrea Ferreira and just like every student, I was undecided between
the film and magazine project. After careful evaluation, I decided to chose the
magazine because I’m curious and fascinated on the steps I have to take in order to create
a magazine. Since I am also in a design class and that is what interests me, I think the
magazine will benefit me in the future.

I am currently performing research on the types of genres I can chose for my magazine
because I want the genre to attract my interests. So far a fashion magazine is my top
choice because I know it will passionates me and even though it will be a lot of work,
I want to get out of my comfort zone and challenge myself.

I am extremely excited (and nervous) to take you guys through this process and hope
you enjoy the journey! :)