Fashion Advertisement
VALENTINO SPRING 1995
featuring Christy Turlington
This fashion advertisement of the brand Valentino was published in 1995 and featured Christy Turlington and an unidentified male model.
This advertisement introduces not only the subject of how fashion is considered a characteristic of femininity rather than masculinity, but also touches on the subject of double standers for men and women in society. Turlington, the female model, is dressed in a classic skirt suit, along with a fur collar and leather gloves. Her appearance, along with the very classic updo, presents a very wealthy woman, one that might be called a “trophy-wife”.
The male model, however, is completely naked, while Turlington leans unto him; the complete image resembles the scenario of wealthy married woman having an affair. The fact that the name of the male model is not mentioned further supports the idea that fashion is intended towards women rather than men.
While when other advertisements switch the roles and present a female model naked and a male model dressed, the critiques are firmly against it, stating that women should not be sexualized. Yet, When advertisement such as this, that sexualize men, do not strike such an uproar in the fashion industry.
This is a very interesting ad – what else is a completely naked person supposed to sell than sex? Great remarks about that, and the fact that you see Christy Turlington as a married woman who has an affair on the other hand also sexualizes her, even though her outfit is rather concealing – perhaps the intention of the ad? You just forgot to include a quote by Susan Kaiser.