The Christmas issue timimg is crucial in the magazine business. Advertisers want to make sure their ads will reach potential clients before they spend their big $ on holidays gifts. Make your December issue too late, and you'll miss a lot of ads. Make it too early and you'll miss a lot of ads too, since not all products are ready on time.

Elle UK was the first out this year, November 7 (!). This is Vogue Australia, with a stunning portrait of Delphine Bafort. Next in line are the US mags, French and Italians will be out last, around November 25. In December, not even one major magazine will appear, and this is why they call it the dry season. January mags are usually very thin, since advertisers believe people don't have any money left to spend.