Fashion editorials have been around ever since the first fashion magazines came out. These are those aspirational pieces which we look to and the whole fashion industry takes a cue from. However, these editorials are about much more than the apparel and have really had an impact on the fashion industry.
From Cecil Beaton and Richard Avedon’s classic photos to Peter Lindbergh launching the era of ‘supermodels’, editorial photographers have shaped fashion trends all over the world. They have contributed to some of the best fashion editorials in highly respected magazines. As with every field, editorial fashion trends have also changed over time, and a few of them have really caught our eye for various reasons.
What Editorial Fashion Trends Stood Out?
Recently, we’re seeing a few encouraging trends in fashion editorials. They are increasingly becoming more socially conscious and deal with real-life issues. For example, magazines have been covering personalities like Dr. Jill Biden, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Malala for their spreads.
As always, fashion is representative of what is going on in the world, and editorials are evolving accordingly. Here are a few trends we noticed and liked in recent years.
1. Body Positivity
The days when models could not be more than a perfect size zero are over. Now, there is a definite movement towards body positivity. Supermodels like Ashley Graham have reached iconic levels, and magazines showcase their bodies in an empowering and respectful way.
We feel that this was long overdue, and there is still some way to go. After all, women don’t need to take hits on their self-esteem when they just want to look at nice fashion photography. When they see women of all shapes and sizes in fashion, they are reassured about their own bodies.
2. Focus on Sustainability
Over the past decade or so, there is a decided shift towards sustainability in the fashion industry. People now hold fashion houses accountable for any problematic or exploitative practices. In addition, global warming and other environmental issues are very much in the public lexicon now.
Therefore, we have seen editorials talking about sustainable practices and showcasing small brands which embody these principles. This influence is quite important for the fashion industry and lets people know about the environmentally-friendly options they have.
3. Pastel Color Palettes
After years of pop art and color-blocking, we’re glad to see that pastels have made their way back to fashion editorials. They give a truly muted and soothing look to the pages, and the fashion is quite wearable.
Of course, there are some truly avant-garde pieces in editorials, but most of them now focus on achievable fashion. This makes aspirational looks within reach, as high fashion was previously criticized for being inaccessible for common people.
4. Minimal Sets
Most editorial sets are now quite minimal, and let the clothes and jewelry speak for themselves. These sets set off a pleasant contrast, and allow the models themselves to shine. With all of the noise out of the way, such starkness creates really appealing looks.
5. Muted Makeup
Continuing from the move towards body positivity, editorials are really making an effort to showcase realistic looks. That’s why we’ve seen that many models now have very natural makeup in their editorials. Apart from experimental, avant-garde looks, muted makeup is the norm. Additionally, they give their looks vibrancy by wearing nails such as acrylics, considering acrylic nails pros and cons. There are editorials that also showcase models’ natural skin texture, which is a far cry from the airbrushed photography of just a few years ago
There are editorials that also showcase models’ natural skin texture, which is a far cry from the airbrushed photography of just a few years ago.
6. Empowerment
Political and social consciousness has always been part of art and fashion, and this era is no different. Editorials promote empowering trends such as gender-neutral fashion, POC-owned brands, and women empowerment. This is one of the best aspects of fashion editorials, as they can have a widespread impact.
These editorials have played a role in normalizing trends like androgyny, drag, and many other controversial issues.
How to Complement Editorial Fashion with Engaging Content
When companies present editorial fashion trends with a point in mind, they need to complement them with engaging content. After all, these editorials are meant to tell a story. So, why not tell a story that influences and empowers people?
So, editors should create proper storyboards for their editorials, and make sure the story they’re telling is relevant and has value.
In conclusion, editorial fashion trends have evolved over time, and reflect the society around them. We shared a few trends which we liked, and look forward to what the industry has to offer in the future.
