Hey guys! Remember the 90s? What a time to be alive, especially if you were a teenager! Beyond the grunge music, dial-up internet, and iconic fashion trends, there was another crucial element shaping our youth: teen magazines. These glossy pages were our bibles, our confidantes, and our guides to navigating the confusing world of adolescence. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the iconic teen magazines that defined the 90s.

The Reign of 'Seventeen'

Seventeen magazine was the queen bee of teen magazines. It wasn't just a magazine; it was a cultural phenomenon that shaped the aspirations and self-perception of millions of young women. Founded way back in 1944, Seventeen had already established itself as a go-to source for fashion, beauty, and advice. But the 90s saw Seventeen cement its place in pop culture history. It was a carefully curated world of aspiration, blending high fashion with accessible trends, celebrity interviews with relatable advice columns, and stunning photography with down-to-earth articles.

Seventeen's fashion coverage was a masterclass in making runway trends wearable for the average teenager. They showed you how to rock the latest looks without breaking the bank, offering tips on how to incorporate key pieces into your existing wardrobe. Beauty tips were equally essential, from achieving the perfect smoky eye to mastering the art of the at-home facial. Seventeen understood that teenagers wanted to experiment and express themselves, and it provided the tools and inspiration to do so confidently. But Seventeen was more than just fashion and beauty. It was a space where young women could find support, advice, and a sense of community. The magazine tackled important issues facing teenagers, such as relationships, body image, self-esteem, and even more serious topics like bullying and abuse. These articles were often accompanied by expert advice from psychologists and counselors, providing readers with valuable resources and a sense of validation. Celebrity interviews were a major draw, offering a glimpse into the lives of our favorite stars. But Seventeen went beyond the typical fluff pieces, asking celebrities about their struggles, their insecurities, and their advice for young people. This humanized these larger-than-life figures and made them more relatable to readers. One of the most beloved features of Seventeen was its advice column, where readers could write in with their burning questions and receive thoughtful, non-judgmental advice from the magazine's experts. These columns covered everything from crushes and dating to friendships and family problems. Seventeen created a safe space where teenagers could explore their feelings, ask for help, and feel less alone in their struggles. Overall, Seventeen reigned supreme because it understood its audience. It spoke to teenagers in a way that was both aspirational and relatable, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and support they needed to navigate the challenges of adolescence.

'YM': Your Magazine, Your Voice

YM (formerly Young Miss) was the cool older sister of teen magazines. It had a slightly edgier vibe compared to Seventeen, focusing on realistic portrayals of teen life. YM hit the scene aiming to be more than just a magazine; it strived to be a voice for young people, tackling real-life issues with honesty and a touch of humor. Its approach resonated deeply with teens who were looking for something more authentic and relatable than the often-polished image presented by other publications. Fashion and beauty were still important components of YM, but they were presented in a way that felt more accessible and less intimidating. The magazine emphasized individuality and self-expression, encouraging readers to embrace their own unique style rather than blindly following trends. YM showcased diverse body types and featured models who looked more like real teenagers, which was a refreshing change from the often-unattainable beauty standards promoted by other magazines.

One of YM's strengths was its commitment to covering important social issues. It tackled topics like racism, sexism, homophobia, and eating disorders head-on, providing readers with information and resources to understand and address these complex issues. YM also featured personal essays and stories from real teenagers, sharing their experiences with everything from bullying and abuse to mental health and identity. These stories were often raw and emotional, but they provided readers with a sense of community and validation, letting them know that they were not alone in their struggles. YM wasn't afraid to push boundaries and challenge conventional wisdom. It encouraged readers to think critically about the world around them and to stand up for what they believed in. The magazine promoted activism and encouraged young people to get involved in their communities. It was a powerful force for change, empowering teenagers to become informed, engaged citizens. Entertainment was another key ingredient in the YM formula. The magazine featured interviews with popular musicians, actors, and athletes, but it also highlighted up-and-coming talent and independent artists. YM was always on the cutting edge of pop culture, introducing readers to new trends and ideas. It also featured movie and music reviews, as well as quizzes, games, and contests to keep readers entertained. YM's legacy lives on in the countless young people who were inspired to find their voice, embrace their individuality, and make a difference in the world. It was more than just a magazine; it was a movement that empowered teenagers to become confident, compassionate, and engaged citizens.

'Sassy': The Smart Girl's Guide

Sassy magazine was the alternative, feminist, and fiercely intelligent voice in the teen magazine landscape. Sassy marched to the beat of its own drum, offering a refreshing alternative to the mainstream teen magazines of the time. It was smart, funny, and unapologetically feminist, appealing to young women who were looking for something more than just fashion and beauty tips. Sassy didn't talk down to its readers; it treated them like intelligent, capable individuals who were interested in a wide range of topics, from politics and culture to music and literature. The magazine's editorial voice was sharp, witty, and often sarcastic, but it was always grounded in a deep respect for its audience. Fashion and beauty were still part of the Sassy package, but they were presented in a way that was empowering and subversive. Sassy encouraged readers to experiment with their style and to express themselves through their clothing and makeup. It challenged conventional beauty standards and celebrated individuality, featuring models of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities.

Sassy covered a wide range of topics that were often ignored by other teen magazines, including politics, social justice, and environmentalism. It featured articles on feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and anti-racism, educating readers about important social issues and encouraging them to get involved in activism. Sassy also had a strong focus on music and culture, showcasing up-and-coming bands, independent filmmakers, and alternative artists. It was a tastemaker, introducing readers to new trends and ideas before they hit the mainstream. The magazine's interviews were always insightful and thought-provoking, featuring conversations with artists, activists, and intellectuals who were making a difference in the world. Sassy created a community of smart, creative, and outspoken young women who were passionate about making a difference. It was a safe space where readers could express their opinions, share their stories, and connect with like-minded individuals. Sassy empowered its readers to challenge the status quo, to question authority, and to stand up for what they believed in. While Sassy magazine ceased publication in 1996, its impact on the teen magazine landscape is undeniable. It paved the way for future generations of feminist publications and inspired countless young women to embrace their intelligence, their creativity, and their individuality. Sassy remains a beloved and influential publication that is remembered for its smarts, its wit, and its unwavering commitment to empowering young women.

'Teen Vogue': The Fashion-Forward Choice

While Teen Vogue emerged a bit later in the 2000s, it's worth mentioning as it carried the torch for intelligent and stylish teen magazines into the new millennium. Teen Vogue hit the scene with a clear mission: to provide sophisticated fashion and beauty coverage to a younger audience. It was like a mini-version of its parent publication, Vogue, but tailored specifically for teenagers. Teen Vogue didn't dumb things down; it treated its readers like intelligent, discerning consumers who were interested in high fashion and cutting-edge trends. The magazine's editorial voice was confident, stylish, and always on point. Fashion was the heart and soul of Teen Vogue. The magazine showcased the latest runway collections, street style trends, and designer collaborations. It provided readers with inspiration and advice on how to incorporate these trends into their own wardrobes. Teen Vogue also featured stunning fashion editorials, shot by some of the world's top photographers, which showcased the beauty and artistry of fashion.

Teen Vogue wasn't just about clothes; it was also about empowering young women through fashion. The magazine encouraged readers to express themselves through their personal style and to embrace their individuality. It challenged conventional beauty standards and celebrated diversity, featuring models of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities. Teen Vogue also provided readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion industry, introducing them to designers, stylists, and editors who were shaping the future of fashion. Beauty was another key component of the Teen Vogue package. The magazine featured the latest makeup trends, skincare tips, and hair styling techniques. It provided readers with expert advice from top makeup artists, hairstylists, and dermatologists. Teen Vogue also encouraged readers to experiment with their beauty looks and to find what works best for them. Teen Vogue was more than just a fashion and beauty magazine; it was also a platform for discussing important social and political issues. The magazine tackled topics like feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate change, educating readers about these issues and encouraging them to get involved in activism. Teen Vogue also featured interviews with politicians, activists, and celebrities who were making a difference in the world. Teen Vogue quickly became a must-read for fashion-conscious teenagers. It inspired a new generation of young women to embrace their style, to express their opinions, and to make a difference in the world.

The Legacy of 90s Teen Mags

These magazines weren't just sources of fashion tips and celebrity gossip. They were cultural touchstones that reflected and shaped the lives of teenage girls. They provided a sense of community, a platform for discussing important issues, and a space to explore identity. So, whether you were a Seventeen devotee, a YM loyalist, or a Sassy rebel, these magazines undoubtedly played a role in shaping who you are today. They remind us of a simpler time, filled with scrunchies, Doc Martens, and the anticipation of the next issue hitting our mailboxes. What are your favorite memories of 90s teen magazines? Share in the comments below!