Magazine
Marie Claire
Publisher
IPC
What's happened?
Magazine has relaunched
So, being a critical media buyer, it was with surprise that when I read the new-look September issue of Marie Claire I actually enjoyed it.
Key changes to the title include a new shopping section, called Straight into Style; Heart & Soul, which claims to offer readers a sophisticated approach to sex and relationships; new regular beauty features, such as How to Look Expensive, and the return of food pages across the lifestyle section.
The new Know and Tell section at the beginning of the magazine offers readers an upbeat snapshot of latest news and events, with stories ranging from nipple enlargements (yes, you read correctly) to inspiring stories
Editor Trish Halpin with her InStyle pedigree obviously knows how to sell fashion. The new-look fashion pages really do the product justice and the fashion features are informative, rather than alienating or patronising. Even the real-life features are more positive in tone, making reading them enlightening rather than dispiriting.
With all the positivity and fawning, you probably believe IPC has me on commission for this review, so it is only fair to highlight any areas that could be better.
The newly dedicated Sex and Relationships section hasn't quite found its feet yet. The tone is more Cosmo than the sophisticated older sister that Marie Claire should be, but then perhaps it's just me being a prude.
What's good?
Learning from "plastic surgeons' wives" that taking a shot of human growth hormone every day to improve your buttocks is all very normal.
What could be better?
The contents page lied; it said there were two features on page 161. The horoscopes; I was horrified to learn that "long anticipated trips and social events may have to be postponed".
Would I book my clients onto this?
Yes - for the right price.
Lindsey Wolfryd, Head of magazines, Mediaedge:cia