Weighing in at four and a half pounds, the September issue of Vogue magazine is an astounding 916 pages. While this may sound like the trappings of a daunting biology textbook, it is really the guidebook to all of fall fashion. This issue of the famous magazine isn’t a standard monthly edition; it has sold so many copies that a documentary was made about Vogue’s famed September issue in 2009. The documentary, aptly titled The September Issue, shows behind the scenes footage of the magazine’s production. Spotlighting Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of American Vogue, the film is very reminiscent of the film The Devil Wears Prada. Known for her icy demeanor and chic blonde bob, the fictional British editor-in-chief holds all the power over every decision made at the magazine. Her staff will do anything to please her, knowing that her word is final when it comes to dictating what is fashionable and what is not. Likewise, today’s fashion trends are the direct result of Wintour’s efforts.
When cracking open the issue, it takes flipping through about 200 glossy ads to get to a page that actually contains full sentences. But if you make it past the initial ball gowns and leather boots (don’t worry there’s a lot more coming, this issue boasts 658 ads), there’s a little bit of everything in the articles that follow. Some articles contain more depth than one would expect, including interviews with both Chelsea Clinton and Lady Gaga, and a piece about a woman who cannot remember people’s faces due to a rare neurological condition. Others showcase a fun and silly side of the fashion world, including a piece about designer skateboards and a spread that depicts models with different shades of neon colored hair. Although there are still the requisite articles about designers and new collections, there’s enough in the issue to keep even those who aren’t well versed in extreme high fashion entertained and interested.
With all the hype this edition receives, the question begs to be asked: Why is this month different than all other months? For fashion, fall is the beginning of the year. Although it’s mostly speculation, the September issue is considered the most important because fall introduces big ticket items like coats, boots, and all things layered. Additionally, it is the precursor to Fashion Week, the time when many designers show their collections on the runways.
But the significance of the September issue also has a deeper message, one that extends to the Stern College for Women population as well. Shopping at this time of year reminds us how important it is to start off our year with a bang. The pieces and price tags in Vogue magazine may seem like a big jump from a new cardigan or jean skirt, but the new clothes and new school year feeling is universal. As we gear up for a year of classes and homework, having that new special piece of clothing can give us a little more bounce in our step and remind us that although summer has ended, September can still bring some fun.