Designer Halston in a Studio with Models, Vogue (1972-12-01) by Duane MichalsCondé Nast Archive
Vogue has been a trailblazer since it was founded in 1892. Known for its trendsetting content and stunning visuals, the magazine has not only influenced global fashion, but has evolved with our changing society over the past 132 years.
Five Models in Matching Dresses and Hats, Vogue (1959-02-15) by William BellCondé Nast Archive
Now the Condé Nast Archive opens its doors to bring the worlds of fashion, celebrity, culture, and design to everyone.
Follow on to take a closer look at 10 images from the archive...
Tapping into the New Coats, Vogue
1. New York, New York
NYC has been Vogue's home for over 130 years. It was launched by Arthur Turnure in 1892, before being acquired by Condé Nast in 1909. New York's streets and iconic skyline have been essential characters in many of the magazine’s stories ever since.
Sketch of Woman with a Black Glove, Vogue (1930-11-10) by Carl Oscar August EricksonCondé Nast Archive
2. Life, drawn
Did you know Vogue's first photographic cover was the July 1, 1932 issue, photographed by Edward Steichen? In its earlier life, the magazine's pages were instead filled with drawings by some of the great illustrators of the day, such as this iconic Carl Erickson watercolor.
The Three Models in Traina-Norell Dresses, Vogue
3. A world of color
Cecil Beaton was one of Condé Nast's longest standing contributors, working with Vogue for six decades. Beaton began his career working in black and white, but, with the arrival of color film in the 1940s, he filled his frames with every shade of the rainbow.
Wrist-Buttoned Gloves by Superb, Vogue (1946-12-01) by Frances McLaughlin-GillCondé Nast Archive
4. One of Vogue’s first female photographers
Frances McLaughlin-Gill signed a contract with Vogue in 1942 when she was just 24 years old. She was mentored by Toni Frissell, another early female photographer for the magazine, and would go on to be one of its most prolific contributors.
The Twelve Most Photographed Models (1947) by Irving PennCondé Nast Archive
5. The 'Twelve Beauties'
In 1947, the iconic photographer, Irving Penn, captured 12 of the era's most-photographed models for Vogue. During this shoot, Penn first fell in love with his wife-to-be, model Lisa Fonssagrives.
Calfskin and Lizard Pumps, Vogue (1961-02-01) by Gordon ParksCondé Nast Archive
6. Gordon Parks in Vogue
As one of the most prolific and influential photographers of the twentieth century, Parks maintained a close relationship with Condé Nast’s Editorial Director, Alexander Liberman. The two worked closely together on numerous stories for Vogue during the 1960s.
Shelley Smith and Susan Bottomly in Two-Piece Suits
7. Empowering women in the workplace
Empowered by the second-wave feminism of the 60s and 70s, Vogue rolled up their sleeves and shifted tone towards the working woman. The story of Vogue is the story of talented women, behind the scenes and in front of the lens.
Beverly Johnson in a Ferragamo Scarf, Vogue
8. Beverly Johnson makes history
Beverly Johnson became the first Black model to appear on the cover of American Vogue in the August 1974 issue. Talking about the impact of the cover, Johnson said: “I see the inspiration of Black women being lifted up all over when they look at me and that’s a super feeling.”
Models in Yves Saint Laurent Eveningwear, Vogue (1976-10-01) by Duane MichalsCondé Nast Archive
9. Dance and fashion
Ballet, swing, or tango; dance and fashion have always had an innate connection. Designers like Coco Chanel and Paul Poiret drew inspiration from the ballet world, its silhouettes and color palette.
Still Life With Ace of Hearts, Vogue (1949-02-01) by Irving PennCondé Nast Archive
10. Through the wardrobe...
Vogue was the first publication in the Condé Nast portfolio, and fashion remains an important component. But literature, current events, arts, sport, food, and design are also important subject areas featured across the magazine's archive.
Patrick Honoré and Models at Versailles, Vogue (1973-12-01) by Helmut NewtonCondé Nast Archive
Continue your journey through the Condé Nast Archive and explore the rich history and iconic imagery that continues to shape the world.
