The September Issue

What is the most powerful and at the same time best-respected fashion magazine in the world? The answer is as simple as it may seem- it is VOGUE! The documentary made by R.J Cutler “The September Issue” depicts the creation of a fall issue in 2007 which sets a record at well over 800 pages.  

As we have learnt from the picture, the September Issue is the most important for the world of fashion. Each year the whole journal is devoted to the designs and designers that the editors think will be influential and potent in the coming season. Thanks to watching the documentary, one has  a chance to see quite an intriguing study of the office politics of Vogue and its editor-in-chief Anna Wintour from behind-the-scenes.

From 1988, when Wintour assumed her place at the top, she has ruled with an iron hand. There are many stories about her ,but on the whole, it is easily visible that she isn’t warm and friendly woman, yet, she is just doing her business. She creates the world brand and seems to cultivate it no matter how high the price is.

Wintour doesn’t say a lot, her statements are limited to “yes” and “no” and what is more, she never explains “why”. Still, in the world of fashion her opinion matters most. Being over 60 years old, she seems to have the “zero” seize the same as the models in her magazine. Worth emphasizing is also the fact that in public, she almost always wears the same dark glasses which for me, create an invisible barrier between her and the common man. Her clothes are not only sophisticated and elegant but also made by the designers from the highest shelves.

As far as Wintour actions are concerned, I found it interesting that it was her who introduced the actresses or singers on the cover of Vogue. In short, she takes and advantage of the power of popularity of those people. She gave them a spot to shine and in return, she increased the number of sold copies.

Although the documentary aims at digging deep in the magical world of Vogue, its formation and people who are responsible for its success, for me,  it only briefly touches upon the subject. It is more about creating a desire and the transformation of wants into needs.  Still, it is a nice piece to watch.