The July 2009 Harper’s Bazaar magazine cover shocked loyal fans of the fashion magazine—instead of a professionally styled and photograph image, the cover reflected a paparazzi shot of Angelina Jolie, the type of image you’d expect on the cover of a celebrity tabloid magazine.
The really bizarre twist is that Harper’s Bazaar subscribers got an edition with a professionally shot cover for July 2009, featuring Doutzen Kroes.
Is this Harper’s Bazaar’s new marketing technique to get more subscribers? That only those who pay for annual subscriptions get access to VIP material? If so, expect many furious fashionistas to quickly turn their page views to Style.com instead.
High Fashion Tabloids?
Harper's Bazaar July 2009 Cover Uses Angelina Jolie Paparazzi Shot
Trend Themes
1. Paparazzi-fashion Crossover - There is an opportunity for fashion magazines to embrace the rawness of paparazzi shots and incorporate them into their covers for an edgier aesthetic.
2. Exclusivity Marketing - By providing exclusive content or experiences to annual subscribers, businesses can incentivize customers to make long-term commitments and increase brand loyalty.
3. Digital Migration of Readers - As fashion enthusiasts increasingly turn to online platforms like Style.com for their fashion fix, print magazines need to adapt and find innovative ways to engage their readership.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Publishing - Fashion magazines can experiment with unconventional cover choices and exclusive content to stay relevant and capture the attention of their target audience.
2. Subscription Services - Businesses can leverage exclusive access and perks for subscribers to attract and retain customers, fostering a sense of community and loyalty.
3. Digital Media - The shift towards online platforms like Style.com highlights the need for digital innovation within the fashion publishing industry, creating opportunities for new digital media ventures.