ELLE’s 40th Anniversary

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.

2 Former ELLE Beauty Editors Revisit the Magazine’s Defining Moments
Wild stories, standout looks, and JFK Jr. sightings.
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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.