The Launch of Vogue Values: As One Decade Comes To A Close, Vogue Is Looking To The Next

 By Jordan Wake, Junior Fashion Editor

You might have a yearly subscription, you might have discovered it from Madonna’s song, you might recognise it from the documentary The September Issue, or you might have come across it from the dance movement. Regardless of how, we all know what Vogue is. Starting as a weekly newspaper back in 1892 in the United States, Vogue has evolved into an influential symbol that has shaped and defined the world of fashion as we know it today. 

Having one of your designs featured in an editorial, a name printed in the credits or a nod of approval from Anna Wintour has the ability to launch anyone’s career in the industry. However, the unique power of the proclaimed ‘fashion bible’ touches far beyond the pages of beauty, glamour and famous faces it might have become recognised for. As we approach the end of a decade, this iconic magazine has its sights clearly focused on the next. Earlier this month, Vogue announced the launch of Vogue Values. A shared mission statement from all 26 editions of Vogue that represent the global vision and commitments that the titles will be collectively implementing.

“For over a century, Vogue has empowered and embraced creativity and craftsmanship; celebrated fashion, and shined a light on the critical issues of the time. Vogue stands for thought-provoking imagery and intelligent storytelling. We devote ourselves to supporting creators in all shapes and forms. Vogue looks to the future with optimism, remains global in its vision, and stands committed to practices that celebrate cultures and preserve our planet for future generations. We speak with a unified voice across 26 editions standing for the values of diversity, responsibility and respect for individuals, communities and for our natural environment.”  – All the Editors-in-Chief, Vogue

With diversity, responsibility and respect being at the forefront of every major conversation in our society, both within this industry and equally to those outside of it, it’s reassuring to see a publication who’s reach remains unrivalled stand behind these crucial issues. Although Vogue might not be the first to incorporate these positive and frankly necessary changes, it certainly does have the ability to set an example for the ones who are not. 

“I’m thrilled to join with the other Vogue editors around the world in celebrating Vogue Values,” said Anna Wintour, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, U.S. Artistic Director and Global Content Advisor, Condé Nast. “And who better than Stella McCartney to be the first January cover star for U.S. Vogue? Her pioneering work around fashion and sustainability is a model of ingenuity and vision. Vogue has long been a place to celebrate such creative, optimistic thinking — and now more than ever we must articulate what we believe in, listen openly to as many views as possible, and lead by example.”

Whilst the landscape of the industry continues to shift for the foreseeable future, one factor does remain the same. Fashion plays a significant role in each and every one of our lives. Whether you consider yourself a part of this industry or not, we all live our lives within the clothes we choose to put on our backs. Something Vogue has consistently embraced and harnessed across its multiple channels. It creates conversation, it tells a story, it defines an era, it embodies emotion, it celebrates culture, it’s instant language and it inspires a force for good. Although the world around us might seem uncertain, particularly now more than ever before, Vogue is solidifying its position and responsibility as the voice of authority it has always been.