W was launched in 1972[2] by James Brady,[citation needed] who at the time was the publisher of the newspaper (and sister publication of W, Women's Wear Daily).

In addition, Tom Ford's racy shoot with Klein and the accompanying article on sexuality in fashion came as a shock to some loyal readers.

[10] Klein was also the photographer for the racy photo shoot featured in the August 2007 issue, showcasing David and Victoria Beckham.

Many of these society luminaries, as well as the elite of the entertainment and fashion industries, have allowed W into their homes for the magazine's "W House Tours"[14] feature, including famous designers, philanthropists, and cultural icons.

[15] Longtime editor in chief Patrick McCarthy retired in 2010 when Condé Nast moved W to its consumer magazine group, along with Vogue, Glamour and Allure.

[21] In 2018, W became one of three publications Condé Nast put up for sale in the face of significant financial losses that forced it to adopt a series of cost-cutting measures.

They launched W’s first podcast, 5 Things with Lynn Hirschberg, which attracted a broad listener base and included guests like Quentin Tarantino, Charlize Theron, Saoirse Ronan, Greta Gerwig, Noah Baumbach, Nicole Kidman, Awkwafina, and Margot Robbie as a part of the new vision for the brand.

[26] On August 14, 2020, W was acquired by Bustle Digital Group, Mic,[23][27] and W Media, a newly formed joint venture led by Karlie Kloss and including Aryeh Bourkoff, Jason Blum, Kaia Gerber, Kirsten Green and Lewis Hamilton.