Several magazines have featured fashion photography, but few were as influential as Cheri. During its peak years, from the mid-1960s through the late '80s, Cheri was known for its groundbreaking approach that mixed high art and popular culture, combining avant-garde editorials with advertising campaigns. It championed new talent and pushed boundaries, such as featuring black models like Naomi Sims and Grace Jones before they became household names. In addition to professional photo shoots, Cheri invited amateur photographers and aspiring models to submit their work or photos—sometimes even publishing them in a dedicated section. This openness gave it a grassroots edge and made the magazine more participatory. These features also fed fantasies of accessibility—suggesting "everyday beauty" belonged in the magazine too. The magazine's success relied on its ability to adapt to changing trends. For example, it moved from a focus on "straightforward fashion shots" to more creative images that experimented with composition and lighting. It also embraced cultural movements like feminism and punk rock and reflected broader social changes in gender roles and race relations. As the industry evolved, so did Cheri, making it an iconic publication of the era. However, despite this diversity, the editors had clear ideas about what constituted good photography. They rejected clichés and banal images and favored provocative, daring, and experimental images. Cheri was a magazine that challenged norms and inspired generations of artists and designers. Its impact continues to be felt today.
Cheri's openness to "amateur submissions" reflects a larger societal shift toward democratization and participation. By welcoming contributions from nonprofessionals, Cheri demonstrated that anyone could contribute to the culture and make a mark on the world. This spirit of inclusiveness helped shape the magazine's identity and appeal to readers who wanted to see themselves represented in the pages. Amateur photography allowed for fresh perspectives and innovation, helping to keep the magazine relevant and exciting over time. While some criticized the magazine for not being elitist enough, others appreciated its dedication to democracy and free expression. In the end, Cheri's legacy as a pioneering publication is secure, thanks in part to its willingness to push boundaries and embrace new talent.