Harper’s Bazaar Nederland reminds us that she may be smaller, but she is also looking mighty in the company of sisters Harper’s Bazaar Italia and Harper’s Bazaar France.

Of course there’s a shared content strategy in play, as we see at Condé Nast, with its Vogues. What seems like a good plan is the higher-aesthetic at Harper’s Bazaars generally, even though individual internationals appear woven into country-specific media groups. See Hearst Global Solutions.

AOC’s instincts are that there is a solid place for aspirational print magazines today, although I expect marketing tactics that force digital subscribers to accept the print magazines will not succeed.

Just this week, I agreed to pay significantly more for digital-only access, rather than accept the hassle of a print magazine that harms the environment, sits in a pile of other unread magazines, and betrays my desire to not sell my name and address to any one who wants it.

Free totebags are also a joke — and an environmental waste — at this point.

Celebrate young artists on limited edition, sustainable tote bags that roll from one to the next when sold out — and people like me might care about the free tote. Or give us a great option to buy one for $10-25 and support young artists.

We have much to learn about creating successful media in today’s complex landscape. AOC is very impressed with how Hearst is proceeding generally, especially in creating visible, aesthetic differentions between Hearst and Condé Nast big titles. I can answer that question in 5 secs.

In this first issue of Harper’s Bazaar Netherlands 2024, rising model Asia Piwka graces the cover and expansive fashion story. This first issue of the year celebrates its 10th year anniversary with a design and content makeover in sync with its French and Italian siblings.

Piwka is joined by Steph [follow Anouk Hart link]. Tricja Cotterrill styles the ‘Shape the Future’ cover story lensed by Anouk Hart [IG], with creative direction by Valerie van der Werff. / Beauty by Magdalena Loza