History of GQ

GQ (Gentlemen’s Quarterly) was originally launched in 1931 as Apparel Arts, a trade magazine intended for men’s fashion wholesalers and retailers. Founded by Arnold Gingrich, it targeted clothing buyers with advice on style, but as it gained popularity among a general audience, it transitioned into a consumer magazine. In 1957, Apparel Arts was rebranded as Gentlemen’s Quarterly, focusing on sophisticated men’s style and lifestyle content.

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In 1983, Gentlemen’s Quarterly was acquired by Condé Nast Publications, which rebranded it as GQ and expanded its editorial scope. Under the guidance of editors like Art Cooper and later Jim Nelson, GQ evolved beyond fashion, covering a wide array of topics including politics, sports, technology, and entertainment. Known for its quality journalism, the magazine also published acclaimed long-form pieces and interviews, appealing to a broader audience.

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In the 2000s and beyond, GQ further adapted to digital media and international editions, increasing its influence globally. Today, GQ remains a leading voice in men’s fashion and culture, known for shaping trends and style, along with its culturally relevant features and celebrity profiles. It has expanded its brand to include GQ.com, GQ video content, and social media, remaining a prominent name in contemporary men’s media.

 

Raheem Sterling

The August 2019 edition of GQ featuring Raheem Sterling exemplifies the magazine’s approach to blending contemporary masculinity with social commentary, resonating with Eduqas Media Studies areas such as representation, media language, and audience engagement. The cover image, or feature article photo, presents Sterling in a stance that combines athleticism with authority, dressed simply in a plain white shirt, enhancing his relatability and emphasis on character over materialism. His direct gaze and visible tattoos communicate confidence, resilience, and pride, aligning him with modern ideals of masculinity that balance strength with empathy and social responsibility.

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The masthead, bold and classic in its minimalist design, maintains brand recognition and GQ's luxury appeal. Positioned behind Sterling’s head, it conveys that the cover subject transcends the brand’s style and reputation, giving Sterling’s presence a commanding focus. The accompanying cover line, “Guardian Angel,” directly references Sterling’s role as a protector against racial inequality in sports, casting him as an advocate for justice and placing him within a broader cultural narrative that GQ readers connect with. This theme appeals to GQ’s primary demographic of affluent, socially conscious men who value both fashion and integrity.

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Cover plugs such as “How to wear a broken suit” address GQ’s traditional focus on men’s fashion, providing practical, high-style advice that reinforces the magazine’s identity as a style authority. Meanwhile, another cover line discussing British politics situates GQ as a publication that goes beyond surface-level aesthetics, offering a mix of current affairs and lifestyle. This balance appeals to readers seeking style insights alongside informed perspectives on cultural issues, portraying GQ as both aspirational and intellectually engaging.

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The visual design, incorporating black, white, and gold tones, creates a sense of luxury and sophistication that aligns with GQ’s brand identity. The use of monochromatic colors frames Sterling as a timeless figure, while the subtle gold accent highlights the exclusivity and premium quality associated with the GQ brand. This careful attention to color and composition makes the cover visually appealing, capturing GQ's blend of fashion-forward aesthetics and culturally relevant content.

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Inside, the feature article delves into Sterling’s life, career, and activism, framing him as a role model for overcoming adversity and advocating for change. This content enhances GQ’s reputation as a culturally insightful magazine that values both style and substance, meeting the expectations of its readership by integrating social themes with high fashion and aspirational lifestyle content.

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        CHECK YOUR LEARNING

1. What does the masthead placement behind Raheem Sterling's head suggest about his prominence on the cover?

2. How does Sterling's direct gaze impact the reader’s perception of him?

3. Describe the significance of the feature article photo styling, especially Sterling's attire.

4. What message is conveyed by the cover line "Guardian Angel" in relation to Sterling’s social role?

5. How does the color scheme (black, white, and gold) support GQ’s brand identity?

6. What purpose do the cover plugs, like “How to wear a broken suit,” serve for GQ’s target audience?

7. How does the cover reflect GQ’s blend of fashion, social issues, and luxury lifestyle content?

8. In what ways does Sterling's representation on this cover challenge traditional masculine stereotypes?

9. How does GQ use Sterling’s story to connect with its socially conscious readers?

10. What cultural or social discussions does GQ aim to promote through this cover and the feature article?

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