Monocle is an international affairs, business, culture, and design magazine and media brand founded in 2007 by Tyler Brule in London, United Kingdom. Brule, a Canadian-British journalist and entrepreneur who previously founded Wallpaper* magazine, created Monocle as a print-first publication covering global affairs through the lens of quality of life, urbanism, diplomacy, business, and design.
Monocle publishes ten print issues per year, supplemented by special editions and an annual forecast issue. The magazine's editorial coverage spans international politics, urban planning, business profiles, retail and hospitality, defense and diplomacy, fashion, travel, and culture. Monocle is known for its distinctive graphic design and editorial approach, which combines rigorous journalism with lifestyle content and design sensibility. The publication regularly produces city guides, country surveys, and rankings including its annual Quality of Life Survey and Soft Power Survey.
Beyond the print magazine, Monocle operates Monocle 24, a round-the-clock digital radio station broadcasting from studios in London, Zurich, and Toronto, featuring programming on global affairs, urbanism, culture, and design. The brand also operates retail shops and cafes in London, Zurich, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and other cities under the Monocle brand, selling the magazine alongside curated products and collaborations.
Monocle is published by Winkontent Limited, a privately held company controlled by Brule. The brand generates revenue through magazine subscriptions, advertising, retail operations, and brand consulting. Monocle's readership spans diplomats, business executives, designers, and globally minded professionals. Annual subscriptions and individual issue prices reflect a premium print publication positioning.