First published in 1920, Vogue Paris experienced a remarkable era under the direction of Edmonde Charles-Roux in the 1950s and 1960s. Charles-Roux championed the concept of haute couture, bringing it to the forefront of the magazine. She recognized its historical significance and its importance as a symbol of French luxury and craftsmanship. During her leadership from 1954 to 1966, Vogue Paris became a platform for showcasing the creations of designers such as Christian Dior, Hubert de Givenchy, and Yves Saint Laurent, capturing the essence of post-war French elegance and sophistication. Charles-Roux's legacy extends beyond her time as editor-in-chief. She went on to have a distinguished career as a writer, including penning a biography of fashion designer Coco Chanel.

Under the tenure of editor-in-chief Francine Crescent (1968-1986), Vogue Paris embraced a bold and provocative aesthetic, a distinctive visual style that combined high fashion with a sense of eroticism and subversion.