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ELLE’s 40th Anniversary

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In September 1985, ELLE launched our very first issue with a bold promise: “Hot Color. Star Faces. New Shapes. Bold Trends. Natural Beauty.” Model Yasmin Le Bon graced the cover wearing a prominent marigold glove—an instant sartorial statement. For the past 40 years, we have stayed true to that original promise, championing audacity, individuality, and personal style. To mark this milestone, we took a deep dive through the decades—honoring some of the magazine’s most defining moments and looking ahead at what the next 10 years might hold for ELLE and everyone else turning 40 this year. Happy birthday to us—and thank you for being part of the journey.
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The 40 Best Beauty Products of All Time

For our 40th birthday, we have a gift for you: ELLE’s Forever Favorites, a guide to the cult-classic beauty products you should never be without.

By Katie Berohn, Kathleen Hou and Tasha Nicole Smith
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2 Former ELLE Beauty Editors Revisit the Magazine’s Defining Moments

Wild stories, standout looks, and JFK Jr. sightings.

By Kathleen Hou
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Millennials Are Changing What 40 Looks Like

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The Best Beauty Looks From Every Era of ELLE

Steal these ideas for your own glam routine.

By Tasha Nicole Smith
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