Fashion, beauty, and lifestyle magazines have been around for many years and are widely read by both men and women. However, there is one magazine that stands out among all others – FHM. Launched in 1985 in the UK, it quickly gained popularity among young men who were looking for advice on everything from fashion to grooming. Over time, FHM has become more than just a publication; it has evolved into an empire that includes websites, apps, events, and even its own line of products. This success can be attributed to the magazine's ability to cater to a specific audience while remaining relevant and innovative. In this essay, I will explore how FHM supported men's grooming trends and why they are still so successful today.
The magazine was known for its coverage of current affairs and celebrity gossip as well as features on cars, travel, food, and drink. But where FHM really excelled was in its coverage of men's grooming. From shaving tips to skincare routines, FHM featured extensive coverage on everything related to male grooming. This included articles on facial hair styles, fragrances tailored to male readers, and even hair care tips. The magazine also covered topics such as bodybuilding, fitness, health, and relationships. It wasn't afraid to tackle difficult subjects either – one of their most controversial covers featured a woman with a full-body tattoo wearing nothing but body paint.
FHM was able to successfully support men's grooming trends because it understood what its target audience wanted. They knew that men weren't interested in reading about beauty and fashion like women were, so they focused on grooming instead. They also kept up with the latest trends and always presented them in a way that made them accessible to their readers. For example, in 2013, they ran an article titled "Why You Need To Try A Beard Oil". The article explained the benefits of using oil to soften and moisturize beards while providing product recommendations. This was a popular topic at the time and helped drive sales of beard oils across the country.
Another thing that set FHM apart from other magazines was its focus on sexual intimacy. They regularly published articles on how to improve your sex life and increase pleasure for both partners. These articles often used graphic language and explicit imagery, which appealed to their young male readership. They also explored different kinks and fetishes, giving their readers the confidence to explore their own sexuality without judgment. By doing this, FHM positioned itself as a trusted source of information for men who may have felt ashamed or embarrassed to talk about these topics elsewhere.
Today, FHM continues to be successful despite facing stiff competition from newer publications such as GQ and Esquire. Their website features daily news stories, videos, and podcasts covering everything from music to politics. They also host events throughout the year, including the annual Sexiest Woman In The World Awards. While some may argue that the magazine has lost its relevance, there's no denying that it remains one of the most influential voices in men's culture today.
In conclusion, FHM supported men's grooming trends by catering specifically to them and keeping up with current trends. They understood what their target audience wanted and presented that information in an accessible way. Their coverage of sexual intimacy allowed them to connect with their readers on a deeper level and make them feel comfortable discussing taboo topics. Despite increased competition, FHM remains a force to be reckoned with thanks to its innovative approach and commitment to providing valuable content.