Monday, October 25, 2010

Vanity Fair: Where Style Meets Substance


Like Taylor, I hope to work for a book publishing house one day. I also write children's stories on the side. If I were to work in the journalism industry, however, my publication of choice would be Vanity Fair. Growing up I loved flipping through my mom's issues of Vanity Fair and looking at the striking photography of current and deceased public figures. As an adult reader, I appreciate the magazine's in-depth reporting and its coverage of more serious issues than other high-end culture magazine's like Vogue. I think the magazine expertly balances stylish design with pertinent social commentary.

Vanity Fair targets readers ages 21 to 54, but its median audience age is 40. Its male to female reader ratio is 23/77. The average Vanity Fair reader makes $75,000 to $100,000 a year. 73% of readers are college educated, and 31% of them work in managerial positions.

The first article I would include is the current cover story, Marilyn and Her Monsters. Dead celebrities sell more magazines than any other cover photos, and Marilyn Monroe is one of the most iconic celebrities of all time. This article keeps with Vanity Fair's effort to feature historical as well as current celebrities. Furthermore, Monroe's bright red lips and the words "Secret Diaries" printed in an equally glaring red on the November cover lure readers in, suggesting that the article includes thoughts from Monroe's own mouth.

I would also include an article from VF's October issue entitled Sarah Palin: The Sound and the Fury. The title of this article appeals to VF's target educated audience, because it references the famed literary work by William Faulkner. While the Monroe article paid tribute to historical pop culture, this article focuses on a current political figure. Although it does not always portray Palin in a flattering light, I like how this article deliberately gives more depth to her character and delves deeper into her emotions and life.

For a lighter change of pace, I would publish the brief piece from VF's October issue on Diana Agron from the hit series Glee. While the weighty Palin article covered a prominent political figure, this small feature highlights and up and coming pop culture celebrity. I like how this article focuses on Argon, although she is not one of the most prominent vocal presences on the musical comedy. Focusing on this talented actress provides a fresh take on this wildly popular new show.

In another nod to the literary appreciation of my readers, I would include the excerpt from Bethany McLean's book, All The Devils are Here from VF's September issue. McLean's book discusses investment companies such as Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs and the mortgage crisis. McLean's analysis of the housing market crash is relevant, thought provoking and draw on emotions of VF readers.

Finally I would include the article Washington, We Have a Problem from VF's September issue.This article offers a unique take on the current state of the White House, by following President Obama around on a typical work day. Access to a day in the life of the President shows how prestigious and well-respected VF is and gives readers a creative look at their leader.

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