Advisors: Barbara Barnett Committee members: Genelle Belmas; Hong Tien Vu.
Abstract:
This study explored the way the lifestyle and fashion magazine Elle U.S. frames women's issues and empowerment in the online content dedicated to fashion. This research used a mixed-methods approach and content analyzed 166 articles published on Elle.com from May 1, 2017, until August 31, 2017. The results of the final qualitative analysis revealed that female empowerment is represented by these frames: strength and confidence, body positivity, positive change, and inclusion. As part of the project, a suggestion for a new "empowerment" section was designed based on the findings and it provides 15 article ideas that could be used to expand the magazine content and appeal not only to the Elle readers but also to a larger and more diverse demographic.