Friday, October 28, 2011

Comso & GQ Analysis




            When I look at the Cosmopolitan Magazine covers shown to us in class, I see a pattern of young starlets with almost identical suggestive outfits on along with various sexual topics laid out.  If you were to lay the covers on top of each other it might appear that they are made from the same template because the cover models all have a similar pose with their breasts and thighs showing, and the article teasers in the same spot.  At first glance I cannot even find the cover models name.  With scantily clad women on the cover and various sex articles I think the message is clear; this is what you need to look like to be sexy and here is your guide to make guys want to have sex with you and what to do when you do have sex.  Sex sells.

            I have purchased GQ before, I don’t remember who was on the cover but I am sure I have.  The men are usually gorgeous on the cover and the articles range from sports to politics.  A well rounded man would be the audience for this magazine, or woman.  In comparison with Cosmo covers, GQ seems to respect their cover model more by putting their name in the key position at the top left of the cover where Cosmo usually has SEX.  It’s almost like it’s saying that a mans name and face will sell itself but for a woman to sell magazines she has to use her body surrounded by articles telling you moves in bed to made it “hotter”.  With GQ, the audience gets treated to a woman on the cover every so often, like Jennifer Aniston.  But I think she was naked.  I am sure the audience was clothed when they read the article on Jennifer, of course in fine apparel I am sure since GQ offers style tips.  GQ even breaks down good eats. 

            I think the message is clear that Cosmo’s audience is possibly looking for a mindless magazine to fill some time and that entertains them.  Surely I would be entertained by an article explaining how I can become a Sex Genius.  I do find it odd that to sell Cosmo to women, they put young lightly clothed women on the cover.  I would prefer to see Anderson Cooper or Miguel Almaguer on the cover.  I guess that’s why I would rather by GQ.  A well rounded magazine for a well rounded guy, or gal.  Handsome men on the cover that look distinguished and are in finely tailored suits.  I can respect that.

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