This week, the American women's magazine Bust turns 20. In a perfect moment of 90s nostalgia, Judy Blume took to Twitter to wish the publication a happy birthday. Fitting congratulations, from the author of books that spoke to young women about their worries in a way that many had never experienced before. For many, Bust had a similar voice. The magazine was launched in 1993 by three women dissatisfied with the crop on offer and who wanted to read about feminism, fashion and sex in a way that didn't feel shaming or frivolous. Since then, the magazine has become a foghorn for these issues in a sea of publications focused on telling readers how to please a man AND get the perfect bikini body (sometimes at the same time).  

While I'm happy to celebrate the success of Bust with my sisters across the Atlantic, it does make me question why there seems to be no space for a similar magazine in the UK. As a teenager, my options ranged from the overly adolescent in tone, to those catering for the sort of grown-up lifestyle I was nowhere near (featuring dresses that cost more than my house). As an adult, I've been known to flit across various publications, with increasing frustration at the vapidity that can often be found within the glossy pages. It should be perfectly acceptable to express an interest in fashion or beauty, without having to endure numerous articles on weight loss or pieces that barely bother to hide their criticism of women and their choices. Many of the tributes to Bust this week have mentioned how great it is to read a magazine that makes you feel positive about yourself after reading it. Can you think of the last time you experienced a similar reaction?

Perhaps the relaunch of Spare Rib can take on the mantle that Bust magazine has held so successfully, but as with all dead tree publications, I fear the moment might have passed. With online sites like Vagenda, Jezebel and Never Underdressed, it's become easier to filter out the mainstream publications so intent on critiquing our waistlines, and find both witty and serious features that appeal to women looking for a more positive narrative. Bust magazine was ahead of its time in this respect. Happy birthday Bust, may you have another uplifting 20 years.