These independent magazines are some of the most fascinating and accessible reads around today.
Independent print publications are hard to nail down. They’re not like traditional magazines, but they’re not so unrecognizable that they approximate art pieces more than literature. Whatever they are, they’re definitely engrossing.
A good indie magazine combines the artsiness of a coffee table book with the narrative bent of a journalism publication. And maybe more importantly, they succeed where many big-name magazines fail.
Of course, one of the problems with smaller publications is that they’re harder to learn about. That’s why I’ve compiled 15 of the best print mags you can pick up right now.
Apartamento
Interior design magazines are fun to look through, but they’re not all that great for actual design inspo. What makes Apartamento different is its focus on normal, everyday homes.
Instead of showing off ultra-hip Brooklyn lofts or lavish countryside mansions, Apartamento showcases spaces where people actually live and work. It provides rare glimpses inside the homes of musicians, chefs, photographers, journalists, and more.
Ernest
Few publications have captured my interest like Ernest has. This beautiful journal takes you on intriguing adventures dealing with all facets of nature, science, art, and more.
It explores everything from living art made of trees to the history of nautical cartography. Tragically, Ernest shut down in 2023, but you can still pick up the last remaining issues in the journal’s store.
Fare
Fare is a food-focused travel magazine that dives into the cultures behind the world’s cuisines. The publication works with local writers, photographers, and illustrators to properly reflect each location’s unique gastronomy and culture.
Only two issues are published each year, but it’s definitely a case of quantity over quality. With its authentic journalism, great writing, and evocative photography, Fare is a compelling read for any foodie.
LOST
LOST isn’t your average travel mag. In fact, it’s more of a travel-themed lit journal that shares first-hand stories from travelers around the world.
As a result, LOST covers ground that few other publications do. The often raw and personal stories reflect the actual experiences of traveling rather than any romantic ideals. (The magazine also has an open call for submissions, which means you — yes, you — could very well be featured.)
MacGuffin
In storytelling, a MacGuffin is an object that’s integral to the plot but unimportant in and of itself. And sure enough, MacGuffin stays true to the concept by focusing on a single object per issue.
MacGuffin takes a closer look at things we take for granted: desks, bottles, and rugs, to name a few. These investigations span every field, from design to politics, so you’ll come away with abundant newfound knowledge about ordinary items.
Magazine B
At its core, Magazine B is a history publication — but not in the way you think. Each issue takes a deep dive into the history of a brand or place.
The magazine has covered all kinds of brands, from Rolex and Barbour to Spotify and Helvetica (yes, the typeface). And the location issues are varied, too, spanning from Berlin to Busan.
One Story
With One Story, you get exactly what it says on the tin. Each issue consists of a single short story that’s usually exclusive to the magazine.
One Story focuses on up-and-coming writers, so it’s a great way to read fiction you wouldn’t otherwise know about. (That said, heavy hitters like Dave Eggers and B.J. Novak have appeared on its pages.)
Openhouse
If you’re in need of a potent dose of creative inspiration, check out Openhouse. This biannual magazine features discussions about art, design, architecture, and culture alongside striking photography.
In many ways, Openhouse is like visiting a museum. Its issues take a close look at artists around the world and cover topics ranging from Spanish fashion to Harlem jazz. The magazine is as substantive as it is aesthetically pleasing — a balance that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Port
Port combines the scope of a big-name mag with the art-forward authenticity of a niche journal. It covers a wide range of topics, but it doesn’t just broadly survey each topic. Instead, it goes deep into fascinating stories.
Within its pages, you’ll find articles on diverse fields such as horology, literature, and sustainability. The magazine also features profiles, photography, and creative writing.
rakesprogress
rakesprogress is a magazine devoted to the analog experience of being in nature. At its core, it’s a homage to the garden and its role in today’s world.
You won’t find any instructions on how to repot plants, but you will find captivating stories, anecdotes, and photographs. If you’re a garden kind of guy, then you absolutely need rakesprogress on your shelf.
Sidetracked
If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, then you’ll appreciate what Sidetracked has to offer. This adventure magazine explores the connection between the natural world and themes like change, risk, and survival.
The mix of action-packed escapades and contemplative storytelling makes Sidetracked a must for any armchair tourists.
Standart
Standart is virtually a must-have for any coffee nerd. This publication is all about the world of specialty coffee and looks at how coffee connects people.
In any given issue, you can read about the production, economics, and culture of coffee. But you don’t need to be in the industry to enjoy the content — if you like coffee, you’ll like Standart.
Tangram
Tangram is fundamentally about curiosity, play, and wonder. This multidisciplinary journal looks at artists, researchers, scientists, and makers doing interesting, wonder-inspiring things.
Each volume features interactive elements like puzzles, scavenger hunts, optical illusions, and crafts. With topics ranging from bamboo architecture to light sculptures, Tangram is a feast for the brain and the spirit.
The Rake
Excellent men’s style publications are hard to come by these days. Thankfully, there’s The Rake, an elevated take on the menswear magazine.
The Rake is clearly inspired by classic men’s style, but it’s stuck in the past. Rather, it views classic menswear through a contemporary lens. It has all the best elements of a men’s magazine without any distasteful baggage.
WM Brown
WM Brown looks and feels like a vintage men’s magazine. From the refined serif on the cover to the classy photography, WM Brown exhibits a sophistication rarely seen in men’s style publications today.
And sure enough, it covers everything you’d expect from an elegant gentleman’s magazine: style, cars, drinks, sport, travel, and more. It’s old-fashioned but not stuffy, so it’s a great read for anyone interested in men’s clothing and lifestyle content.
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