Cipe Pineles’ Editorial Design Activities for Women’s Magazine

Abstract

Cipe Pineles (1908-1991) was active in the publishing industry of the United States after World War II and played an important role during the period of economic growth and social adversity in the 20th century. One of her contributions was her involvement in the editing work for popular periodicals, especially fashion magazines targeting young women, that were newly emerging at the time. As the first female art director to edit a number of magazines, Pineles' work focused on teenage girls and working women, a group that had not previously received social or economic attention, and created a new visual culture in postwar United States. While she made numerous achievements in the graphic design industry and played a pioneering role in the advancement of women into society, she also struggled with the stress of her work and her happiness as a woman, and attempted suicide. Pineles' life is not only a precedent of a successful designer, but also a thought-provoking story for today's society dealing with sexism and social issues. This paper reveals the achievements of Pineles, who laid the foundation for the creation of new popular magazines and created the history of design for women.