Topic > Analysis of Old Spice Advertising

IndexIntroductionIntended for female audiencesThe idealized man and sexual attractionConclusionReferencesIntroductionOld Spice's advertising campaign, "How Your Man Could Smell Like", captivated the public with its intriguing approach to promoting own product. This campaign uses a combination of humor, sexuality and compelling storytelling to engage viewers and encourage product purchases. In this analysis, we will delve into various aspects of this ad, including its intended audience, its portrayal of ideal masculinity, and its impact on sales. By examining these elements, we can better understand the effectiveness of this iconic advertising campaign. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Targeted at female audiencesOld Spice, founded by William Lightfoot Schultz in 1934, initially introduced its products to women in 1937 and later expanded to cater to men in June 1938. Procter's acquisition of the brand & Gamble in 1990 marked a significant shift in its marketing strategy. The iconic nautical themed logo was replaced with a yacht, signaling a shift in targeting a younger demographic (Rajeev, 2015). This change highlights the brand's adaptability to evolving consumer preferences. From the beginning, it is evident that Old Spice's advertising primarily targets women as a key audience. Rather than relying solely on the allure of the model and setting, the ad focuses on eliciting emotional responses that convey the ideal image of a man and how he should smell. This strategic choice expands the campaign's reach beyond men, appealing to a broader audience. The ad cleverly contrasts the perfect image of a man with the reality of everyday life, suggesting how men can embody the idealized version. The ad cleverly ends with the Old Spice man claiming to be “on a horse,” a whimsical twist that reinforces the aspirational aspect of the ad. By portraying the perfect man, the advertisement aims to influence how women perceive the ideal man and, by extension, how men should strive to be. The Idealized Man and Sexual Attraction The Old Spice advertisement presents an attractive, physically fit man as the embodiment of the ideal man. desirability of the product. By showcasing this male figure, the advertisement aligns itself with women's preferences, suggesting that using Old Spice can make men more attractive to the opposite sex. This depiction reinforces the idea that a man's emotional appeal is tied to his scent, underscoring the importance of smelling like a "real man" to attract women. The campaign draws on satire and humor to playfully mock traditional perceptions of masculinity while revealing underlying truths. This approach has proven remarkably effective in marketing a diverse range of Old Spice products (Hairstylist Kristen, 2017). By incorporating elements of comedy and satire, the advertisement engages viewers by challenging social norms. Sexually themed ads have broad appeal, not only to their primary target demographic but also to a broader audience. Such themes serve as a surefire way to attract more people towards the product. The use of sexuality in advertising is a well-established technique, and Old Spice uses this strategy effectively to capture consumers' attention (Hairstylist Kristen, 2017). After launching the campaign in February