The magazine publishing industry has been hit with the closing of several publications in 2009, but that has had no effect on Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel.  He is launching a new magazine for the label. Karl is not the only one venturing into the magazine business, Forever 21 makes its magazine debut on Friday.  Even Barneys is getting in on the act, the luxury retailer has plans to launch its own blog for fashion directors.  The only question is what took them so long?

It appears to be a logical extension of their respective businesses, and the timing of these ventures is pretty genius as well.  Designers and retailers have to be creative when it comes to their finances in this economic environment, and this is one way to conserve their advertising dollars.  I’m sure they will not abandon independent print organizations altogether, but this is a viable alternative for promoting their brands. 

I guess we know where the missing advertising dollars from print publications have gone, in-house.  Even so, I’m looking forward to both Chanel’s 31 Rue Cambon and Barneys’ blog.  You will be able to get your copy of the Chanel magazine in their stores worldwide.

Forever 21 Makes Mag, Olivier Zahm Does It for Chanel [Blackbook]

Karl Launches Chanel Magazine, Barneys to Get a Blog [The Cut]