Equally Trendy and Smart

It is rare that a fashion magazine compels you to think about the human condition, but that is precisely what Depesha does. Alongside the articles written in both Russian and English, the art layouts further reveal that this is no ordinary periodical. From the beginning, you are immersed in a world where fashion reigns. The photography is not your standard fare – stunning advertisements from

Everyone from Donna Karan to Versace are displayed, however, they are put into a sublime context when you start reading.

Oh yes, you will be reading. This isn’t the type of magazine that you flip through at your local bookstore. The essays on fashion range from “The Degeneration of Fashion” to the business end, never forgetting that clothing is the focal point. What makes this magazine original is that there is a theme that is brought across throughout both the writing and photographs. It is rare to see this in a fashion magazine. Usually, they show the latest trends and how you should wear them. What Depesha does is create a narrative that attempts to contextualize how we see clothes. The articles are not lighthearted. From the beginning, you are introduced into a world that does not demean itself with fluff pieces or inane photos. When the editor-in-chief is breaking down the use of the word “evil” and successfully relates it to fashion, then you know you’re in for a wild ride.

The photographs match the writing point-for-point. They startle and grasp your attention right away. Early on, there are depictions of women that allude to how fashion has dictated their lives. Has it corrupted them to the point that you are viewing them as their true selves, or have the evils of fashion taken over their souls? Further on there are full-page spreads that propel the narrative. They are striking in the use of colors, shade and lighting.

You can’t help but look at them. However, the magazine always remembers that it is about fashion. Several fashion layouts show wearable clothing that any woman can envision herself wearing. The models aren’t all rake thin, and the myriad of styles gives this magazine reread value. You will find yourself poring over the articles and pictures several times over – it’s that well done.

There is a sense of elitism in reading Depesha, and that’s a good thing – any publication that offers a satisfying read from beginning to end in one sitting deserves to have an air of superiority.

What does fashion mean? How does the way I wear clothes affect my life, and who dictates fashion sense? Has the business of fashion overtaken the artistry, and has it done so at the expense of the designer? Seldom have questions this thought-provoking come up when reading a magazine, much less one devoted to fashion. Currently Depesha is an Internet publication, which further shows that they are cutting-edge and are taking full advantage of the electronic age. So check out their virtual publication – it will be well worth the effort.