When dealing with sexuality, most magazines do it stealthy: but not German Vogue. The only words on the cover of the June 2008 issue are “SEX by Mario Testino†written across an image of a nearly nude, masked Claudia Schiffer. The theme of the issue is clearly the timeless topic of sex, yet Vogue still incorporates one of the biggest fashion movements of the season, superheroes, by way of the Catwoman-esque mask.
Testino is one of my favourite photographers, and one of the most famous celebrity photographers of today. He captured the beauty of the German supermodel in the most tasteful way imaginable. It may seem odd for a fashion magazine, which gets makes its money through advertisements for clothes and accessories, to feature a model devoid of any garment but underwear and stalkings, but it's actually a clever way to entice readers.
Even female readers are drawn to this cover; not because it gets them sexually aroused, but because it showcases beauty in such a natural way.
I love how the mask ties back into the recent obsession with Superheroes....
Superheroes Stripped
Claudia Schiffer Covers German Vogue
Trend Themes
1. Stealthy Magazine Cover Designs - Magazines are exploring more provocative and attention-grabbing cover designs to entice readers.
2. Natural Beauty Showcasing - Readers are drawn to magazine covers that feature beauty in a more natural and authentic way.
3. Superhero-inspired Fashion - Fashion magazines are incorporating the popular trend of superheroes into their editorial content.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Publishing - Fashion magazines can innovate by experimenting with unique cover designs that leverage provocative themes.
2. Photography - Photographers can capture beauty in a more natural and authentic way, like Mario Testino did with Claudia Schiffer.
3. Fashion Retail - Fashion retailers can take inspiration from superhero fashion and incorporate it into their collections.