marie claire Australia is celebrating 30 years of fashion, feminism and fearless storytelling with a September anniversary issue fronted by comedian Celeste Barber.
On sale now, the issue features Barber reimagining five iconic fashion moments, including the legendary Versace supermodel runway, in her trademark satirical style.
The issue pays tribute to marie claire’s history of blending high-glamour visuals with serious journalism, covering feminism, diversity and body positivity long before they became mainstream media themes.
The cover is presented in partnership with Swarovski, with luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, and Tiffany & Co featured throughout the edition.
“Smart, stylish and loud when needed”
Georgie McCourt, marie claire Editor, said: “From the very beginning, marie claire has been smart, stylish and loud when needed. We’ve always known that style and substance aren’t mutually exclusive, they are powerful together.”
McCourt added that Barber was always the first choice for the milestone cover: “She’s fierce, funny, feminist and completely fabulous. This issue is my favourite yet.”
Barber returns the sentiment in the magazine, saying: “I love my relationship with marie claire and the way it celebrates all of me, not just my banging body, true, but my essence, the person I am with all my chaos.”
Celeste Barber on marie claire
Spotlighting Australia’s most powerful women
Coinciding with the anniversary, marie claire unveils its new “Power 30” list, recognising influential Australian women across politics, business, sport, the arts and activism.
The list includes Jennifer Robinson (human rights lawyer), Shemara Wikramanayake (Macquarie Group CEO), and Melanie Perkins (Canva co-founder and CEO), selected for their leadership, impact and commitment to the next generation.
Looking back… and forward
Fashion Director Naomi Smith reflects on 30 years in fashion media with behind-the-scenes insights into how trends, celebrities and coverage have evolved.
Meanwhile, Are Media General Manager of Luxury Nicky Briger, who was involved in marie claire’s launch three decades ago, calls the anniversary “a full-circle moment”.
The issue is part of a broader year-long celebration that includes special events, refreshed print and digital design, and elevated editorial content across platforms, including the prestigious Women of the Year Awards.
McCourt closed with a nod to the brand’s enduring mission: “After 30 years, we are still asking the hard questions, still celebrating women who do things their way, and still fighting the good fight. Here’s to the next 30, and to every bold, brilliant woman reading this. We’re right here with you.”