We asked Editor-in-Chief Tsukamoto Kaori how ELLE Japon will evolve in the future. "I don't think the way fashion magazines are produced will change dramatically, but as we integrate digital media and find new ways to express it, I think it will take on the functions of a new medium. Earlier this year, ELLE UK Editor-in-Chief Lorraine Candy completely overhauled the magazine's layout. The "well" (fashion pages that present beautiful visuals) pages haven't changed; instead, she's focused primarily on the information pages." For example, the magazine's cover shoots will be shown online, showcasing behind-the-scenes footage and featuring messages from celebrities who appear on the cover. The music pages will feature a system that allows users to listen to just one of the songs featured. Makeup pages are well-suited for the web, and while the magazine uses split photos, a video can easily introduce the steps and key points in a flowing format. The use of Instagram isn't just about editing photos to look like Instagram content; it's also about creating a system where photos from the magazine can be viewed there, supplementing information beyond the photos featured in the magazine.

Until now, print and web media have had a relationship of sharing rather than linking articles, but Editor-in-Chief Tsukamoto emphasized that going forward, we will see a time when still and movie teams will meet together to discuss a single theme and consider how they can link them.

Rather than fearing that print media will be replaced by digital, it should continue to play a role in pursuing and expressing beautiful visuals, and consider which platforms, such as tablets, smartphones, and social media, will be most effective for displaying that content. It seems that the time has come for the magazine and web editorial departments to come together and consider forming a new team.

(Continued from 9/12. Marie Claire launches.)