For decades, Glamour magazine has been a leader in beauty, fashion and culture. As one of the most influential magazines in the world, it has regularly featured famous people on its covers who have helped shape beauty standards and influenced style trends. These covers often become cultural touchstones, representing not only the celebrity’s star power, but also the beauty ideals, fashion choices and societal changes of the era.
The Glamour cover is more than just a front page—it’s a powerful moment where fashion, fame and culture collide. Many of these covers have left lasting impressions and captured pivotal moments in the careers of the stars who graced them. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most memorable Glamour celebrity covers and what made them so iconic.
1. Beyoncé (2015)
One of the most memorable covers in recent years was that of Beyoncé on the 2015 cover of Glamour. The singer and cultural icon was pictured with a fierce yet graceful look, showcasing her versatility as an artist and role model. At the time, Beyoncé was making waves with her album Lemonade, which would become one of the most critically acclaimed albums of the decade.
The cover was significant not only because of Beyoncé’s star status, but also because it highlighted her evolution as an artist and cultural force. Beyoncé’s uncompromising commitment to her identity, beauty and artistry made this cover an empowering symbol for many readers. Her presence on the cover reflected themes of self-love, independence and resilience, important values that resonate with Glamour’s diverse audience. The cover was an instant classic and cemented Beyoncé’s status as a long-time muse for Glamour.
2. Lady Gaga (2010)
Lady Gaga has always been a trailblazer in the music industry, and her 2010 Glamour cover featured her at a moment of immense cultural influence. Known for her avant-garde fashion choices and bold public appearance, Lady Gaga was pictured on the cover with a stunning platinum blonde look and a soft yet edgy style. The cover became iconic because it showcased her as both a fashion icon and a pop culture phenomenon.
At the time, Lady Gaga was at the height of her success and had just released her album The Fame Monster, which included hits like “Bad Romance” and “Alejandro.” The cover illustrated not only her music career, but also her influence on beauty and fashion trends. Lady Gaga’s avant-garde style, with her unique hairstyle, makeup, and wardrobe, made her the ideal choice for a Glamour cover that celebrated creativity and individuality.
This cover also represented a shift in the public’s perception of beauty. Lady Gaga defied traditional beauty ideals with her bold fashion choices and uncompromising personality. She proved that beauty can be quirky, daring and unconventional – and Glamour was there to support her.
3. Michelle Obama (2009)
In 2009, Michelle Obama, the First Lady of the United States, graced the cover of Glamour and became one of the most talked-about covers in the magazine’s history. An influential political figure and style icon, Michelle Obama’s appearance on the cover symbolized a new era in American politics and culture. She was featured in a beautiful portrait with her signature chic style – showcasing her natural beauty and elegance.
Michelle Obama’s cover was groundbreaking because it celebrated a woman in power who was also a mother, wife and a beacon of hope for many. As First Lady, she broke the mold of traditional political figures, espousing a more casual, approachable style while still maintaining a sense of sophistication and authority. Her cover story touched on themes such as family, empowerment, and the importance of education and community. It resonated with readers, making her cover not only a fashion moment, but a cultural statement as well.
Michelle Obama’s influence on the fashion world cannot be overstated, and this glamour cover summed up her impact on the world in both politics and fashion.
4. Zendaya (2019)
At just 23 years old, Zendaya made waves when she appeared on the cover of Glamour in 2019. Known for her multifaceted career as an actress, singer, and fashion icon, Zendaya’s cover was an important moment for the younger generation. It marked her rise as a voice of empowerment and a champion for body positivity, representation, and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
Zendaya’s fashion choices have always been bold and ahead of the times, and her Glamour cover reflected that. The cover featured her in a sophisticated look that showcased her maturity while still containing the cheerful, youthful energy she is known for. With her flawless skin, bright smile, and ever-evolving style, Zendaya’s cover celebrated her individuality and ability to transcend traditional beauty norms.
Beyond fashion, Zendaya’s appearance on the Glamour cover also highlighted her influence as a role model. She speaks out on important societal issues such as diversity, body image and the need for representation in Hollywood. Her cover resonated with readers, especially young people who saw her as a positive, encouraging role model.
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In 2015, Kerry Washington, star of the hit TV series Scandal, appeared on the cover of Glamour, showing off her radiant beauty and undeniable charm. As one of the most well-known African-American actresses in Hollywood at the time, Kerry Washington’s cover was important for both fashion and representation.
Kerry was the first African-American woman to star in a network TV drama in over 40 years, and her success as Olivia Pope made her an inspiration to many. Her cover not only recognized her acting skills, but also her commitment to diversity and women’s rights. At the time, Kerry was using her platform to advocate for more inclusive representation in the media, and her cover story reflected her mission.
Kerry’s sophisticated look on the cover, coupled with her elegant styling, made it one of the most memorable in Glamour history. She was seen as a symbol of resilience and strength, which resonated with readers, especially women of color. Her cover cemented her status as a fashion and cultural icon.
6. Jennifer Lopez (2001)
One of the most iconic Glamour covers of all time featured Jennifer Lopez in 2001. The cover was a big moment for the pop star, who was at the peak of her career. What made this cover so memorable was J.Lo’s stunning beauty and the fashion-forward style she flaunted. Her look on the cover was glamorous yet accessible, with the signature J.Lo glamour that would become part of her brand.
Jennifer Lopez has long been celebrated for her timeless beauty and ability to mix high fashion with street style. Her 2001 Glamour cover illustrated her status as a global trendsetter. The cover cemented her position not only as a successful entertainer, but also as a style icon and beauty inspiration for millions of women.
7. Emma Watson (2013)
In 2013, Emma Watson, the popular actress known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, graced the cover of Glamour. By this time, Emma had grown into an inspiring young woman and her cover reflected her transformation from child star to confident feminist.
Emma’s cover story highlighted her work as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, where she advocated for women’s rights and gender equality. The actress was portrayed as intelligent, confident and powerful – qualities that resonated with Glamour readers, especially women who were inspired by Emma’s commitment to using her platform to make positive change.
Emma’s beauty on the cover was effortless and elegant, with her signature pixie cut and subtle makeup that made her look approachable and relatable. The cover captured her essence – intelligent, compassionate and undeniably stylish.
Conclusion: The Power of Glamour Covers
Over the years, Glamour has featured some of the biggest names in Hollywood, fashion and culture. These covers are more than just glossy magazine pages – they capture pivotal moments in celebrities’ careers and reflect broader societal trends and movements. From Beyoncé’s empowering presence to Michelle Obama’s groundbreaking role as First Lady, these Glamour covers have become timeless representations of beauty, fashion and cultural change.
The celebrities who grace Glamour’s covers leave an indelible impression on the magazine and its readers, shaping Sbeauty standards, influencing fashion and inspiring generations of women to embrace their own unique identities. These iconic covers will continue to be remembered as part of Glamour’s legacy of celebrating beauty, empowerment and style.
