HOMEWORK

Exam Q.
How does the magazine challenge traditional representation (16 marks).

The magazine 'Oh Comely' differentiates to other traditional representations of a common magazine. A way in which they do this is through the use of neutral and minimalist colour tones, which is seen on the fonts, setting and the model's makeup. In relation to the model's clothing and pose, this embeds a dramatic effect in comparison to the clean and achromatic theme of the cover. This aesthetic entices the readers, therefore increases their consumers. What we can interpret from this particular cover of an 'Oh Comely' magazine, is the continuous pale tones of the setting, costume, text and makeup. The setting has been intentionally blurred in order to accentuate the model. The model is a significant element included on the cover because she enables the readers to visualise the message they are trying to address to the reader; she represents the magazine's intentions and purpose which conflicts between other common magazine covers like 'Glamour' or 'Men's Health'. For instance, her peculiar pose on the magazine cover, it creates an enigma to question the purpose of this chosen position. She's positioned very powerful yet poised. Very contrasting to the stereotypical message of women  being perceived as glamorous and sexy. Therefore, juxtaposing the stereotype of men and women in the media.  It enables the reader to examine the relation of her pose to the text.
The text quotes "Power and poise", suggesting a sense of leadership, personal growth and empowerment. Her facial expression represents assurance and confidence, suggesting the audience should feel the same female empowerment. Like other magazines, such as 'Glamour', they target younger audiences, therefore are thoroughly influential. Women were supposed to be a dainty figure within society, only seen, not heard. Whereas, power is the opposite of this, suggesting why they have headlined the magazine, "Power and poise". This highlights its irony in relation to the growth of women and how it has developed throughout society. 
In comparison to other common representations of magazine covers, such as 'Glamour', they highlight dramatic and essential glamorous beauty. A common theme identified within their covers is the idea that they enhance the idea of representation stereotypical appearances for females within society. Beauty within the media has become a resourceful method to advertise and embrace creative ideas, especially within relation to makeup. However, 'Glamour' encourage stereotypical colours for girls, such as as pinks, purples and light pastel colours. Similarly, both magazines publish stories relating to their consumer's hobbies, lifestyle, beauty, fashion and more. Like most traditional magazines, they encourage change towards the individual, whereas 'Oh Comely' promote acceptance and individuality. In relation to the model's clothing, she is dressed in particularly masculine clothing, as she wears a dark green colour pallet in an army jacket. However, uses a hint of feminine colours such as purples and pinks. As well as using sparkly jewellery earrings to emphasis the magazine's feminine concept. This is very controversial to magazines such as 'Glamour' because they put their model's in colourful, slinky and new fashionable clothing trends to address a sense of confidence and sex appeal to their target market. This method can motivate their consumers to feel confident in new fashion, however this may limit their target audience. In comparison, 'Oh Comely' encourages confidence within natural beauty, and the importance of  loving yourself despite living in a very overpowering and influential society.
A significant aspect overlooked in the magazine 'Oh Comely' is that they refuse to use 'star' power to promote their magazine to more costumers. Like many traditional magazine companies, they use celebrities to entice readers and gain more consumers. It enables the reader to gain a relationship with the celebrity as they read more about them in articles. Whereas, 'Oh Comely' use their model to engage with the reader on a relatable level as it offers a sense of normality and realistic prospective to aspire to the lifestyle they are promoting. 

How does the front cover create a narrative about character and lifestyle (16 marks)