By I’M Firenze Digest Editorial Team. Cover image: BL8D magazine.
As creative, we are always in search of inspiration and fresh ideas to fuel our research and discovery. However, in the modern age, we’re exposed to such an abundance of high-quality artistic productions that it is quite common to feel stuck in an inspirational rut. That’s why indie fashion and art magazines are our inspiring tools.
The countless references available tend to cancel each other out, our research becomes cluttered, and we are overwhelmed by the many different voices, so we resort to the same old magazines, we scroll through the same old Instagram accounts, and we soon realise we’re seeing the same old celebrities wearing picks from the same old brands and being photographed in a technically perfect yet emotionally safe and sometimes empty way.
A creative’s work, output, references and knowledge can only be as relevant and multi-layered as the resources they draw from.
In this list, we will focus on indie magazines and organisations that are reminiscent of Punk Zines. These specific magazines act as mirrors of particular subcultures or niches and are not afraid to align with a distinct voice and a strong opinion. They produce relatively niche content and direct their editorial and creative voice to a more specific, less commercially generic audience, unlike the behemoths of the cultural press, which tend to act through a politically correct lens to reach a broader audience.
Below is a selection of indie magazines, available in both digital and print formats, that we feel you should check out if you are in search of fresh and exciting sources of inspiration.
AnOther Magazine, a mix of our fashion and art magazines
AnOther Magazine is a cutting-edge publication that merges fashion, pop culture, contemporary art and avant-garde culture with relevant socio-political journalism. This Bi-annual magazine was launched in 2001 and is a part of the Dazed Media group.
The magazine constantly pushes boundaries and delivers an alternative perspective by showcasing innovative and thought-provoking content. Its fresh yet meaningful production is the result of high-calibre artists, high-profile personalities and the common goal of creating polished yet fresh and exciting media. AnOther Magazine is special for those seeking inspiration beyond the mainstream.
Not so fashion but very art magazine BL8D [‘blu: d]
With its finger on the pulse of cutting-edge trends, BL8D is an annual publication that explores culture and semantics in the art and fashion industry from the perspective of three creators, all coming from the post-Soviet Empire. With Bl8D, they assert and navigate the world of creative communication as individuals who have always felt as outsiders in the industry.
This annual publication stands out for its bold visual storytelling, innovative design and commitment to highlighting emerging talent in various creative disciplines. It’s a compelling source for those seeking an immersive experience at the intersection of style and innovation and for true lovers of indie arty magazines.
Metaverse indie fashion and art magazines? Check in at RED•EYE Magazine
RED•EYE Magazine is both a magazine and a creative agency, a multi-platform creative universe that explores fashion and art through tools that range from traditional photography to AI, 3D art and a metaverse-inspired online archive.
It’s a great source of inspiration for anyone looking for the extraordinary. With its keen eye for creativity, RED EYE is the perfect place to keep you inspired and scrolling for hours.
Schön! Magazine, biannual magazine for true connoisseurs
Schön! Magazine was initially launched as an online magazine called nineteen74.com to showcase the work of the online creative community. Since its inception in 2009, it has become a platform that highlights diverse and dynamic voices. Now it’s also a biannual publication for true connoisseurs and indie magazines enthusiasts.
The magazine has collaborated with numerous celebrated artists, including photographers like Ellen von Unwerth and Nicola Formichetti and artists such as Kali Uchis, Naomi Campbell and Rihanna, among others.
CRASH Magazine
Founded in 1998 by Frank Perrin and Armelle Leturcq, Crash magazine is a young and disruptive radical French magazine that aims to provoke critical thinking through intelligent writing and editorials, exploring urban and youth culture by celebrating and complementing it with high-end fashion.
This magazine is a cultural catalyst with an edgy approach and a dynamic blend of visually striking imagery. It’s a great source of inspiration, even when you are facing a creative block.
