This DKNY ad published in Vanity Fair magazine (11/09) caught my eye immediately! I love the bold clothing colors and patterns featured here. I like the idea of girls and women dressing in eye-popping apparel rather than hiding behind dull grays and blacks. The clothing is also super-stylish without being too revealing or calling attention to the models’ breasts, legs, or hips. Always a plus!
I also love this ad because the models appear to be strong, confident, career women. This ad was clearly shot in a city, which suggests the women are at the center of the professional world. Also note the sign in the background, which reads something like “exchange place.” The inclusion of this detail also advances the idea that the models are modern businesswomen. Similarly, their well-tailored, clean-lined clothing sends the message that they are confident professionals who command respect in the workplace and out on the street.
Lastly, I’m happy to see that DKNY values diversity by featuring it in this ad campaign—although I should note that body diversity is not in play here. But, the racial diversity is a step in the right direction. In addition to two white models, the ad features an Asian model and a black model. The inclusion of women of different races sends the message that a variety of girls and women can, and should, aspire to professional success.
All in all, I stamp this DKNY ad “Girl Strong” for its commitment to encouraging women in the workplace, promoting racial diversity in both the modeling industry and the fictional corporate world of the ad, and selling the idea that we can be stylish without being obviously sexy.