Why Can't We Be Friends?

The New York Times' December 2009 article, "Bloggers Crash Fashion's Front Row," highlights the clash between the worlds of old and new media — fashion magazines and fashion blogs, respectively. And what a conflict it is! As the headline says, bloggers are crashing the party. They are stepping on the Louboutin-clad toes of editors of the Anna Wintour ilk, who have put in decades at their respective publications to reach the elite status that guarantees them front row seats at Chanel.

But it is in part this elitist quality of fashion magazines that provides the fuel that is rocketing fashion bloggers to the top of the industry's consciousness. As the Times article says, it is accessibility that the new generation of fashion devotees demand. Fashion: Democratized, is what they want. So, like any group of elitists accustomed to a cozy spot at the top (or catwalk-side) some editors feel threatened.

It is a natural reaction, but I wonder — is it necessary? Instead of resisting the blogging revolution and framing it as Us versus Them, why aren't the top dogs at Vogue, W and Bazaar taking advantage of the up-to-the minute content that bloggers provide, especially since it is content that the magazine staffs cannot create themselves? These kids are doing it anyway... It would be like what ProPublica provides for the Times or CBS. Just a little more fashion forward. 

Because if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.