There’s no denying the print magazine industry is in a slight decline. Even publications like Vogue seem to be struggling as they turn to digital subscriptions and boosting their online presence to boost sales.
I guess in some ways we’re partially to blame. As both a blog reader and avid social media user, I rarely get my news or fashion/beauty fix in print anymore. Why would I splash out when I can get my content pretty much for free online? I had admittedly fallen out of love with the printed medium and rarely actually pick up a copy of Glamour or Elle anymore – if I do it’s normally because I’m swayed if one of my faves is the cover star.
I am slowly reginiting my love for print though thanks to independent magazines. It’s a slow crawl but like other ‘lost’ art forms (podcasts, crafting, vinyls etc.) they’re experiencing somewhat of a comeback. Publications like Oh Comely or Kinfolk are thriving, as are a number of other niche titles. There seems to be an allure to what’s being created. Pickier magazine readers are seeking something individual and more cutting edge, others may have also grown bored of seeing the same high street top in every ‘glossy’.