In recent weeks, I've had so many discussions on the American Apparel ads that I had to create a blog dialogue on the matter. In most conversations my colleagues and friends are a bothered by the slightly "soft porn," youth sexual exploit depiction these ads seem to display. They say the young women in the ads look fresh, natural and willing.
In the Lower East Side of New York City, there's an ad of a brunette in American Apparel. She is laying on her stomach, back arched and legs up (where the knees are bent). The model's butt looks big and the look on her face looks like she is inviting her viewers to "hop" on. Others view the ads and may think it confirms the philosophy of the clothing which is comfort apparel.
Interestingly enough, a close source informed me that most American Apparel (we'll call it AA from here on) models are friends of insiders that work for the company. I trust the source because a cute artist that was a roommate with a friend of mine was a model for one of their ad runs a few years ago.
I love American Apparel clothing. I think the fit is excellent and compared to many other comfort clothing lines (James Perse, Vince) their prices are a bit more affordable,I own several tanks and t-shirts from $2.00 to $50.00 and American Apparel offers me good quality, variety of colors, availability and price.
The simplicity of the ads may be a bit uncomfortable for some, but one truth holds merit in terms of style, AA allows you to bring your own personality and utilize the garments as a tool to enhance your wardrobe or make it more functional for your lifestyle. Let us discuss the picture of the model with the white tank for a moment. The featured model is wearing the high waisted lame tights. Unlike the other lame tights in the AA collection, this pant has an added texture that makes it look rich. It photographs exceptionally well. These pants are a HOT wardrobe commodity. They dress up any bland top, make for a sexy look for a night club or can be worn with a leather jacket and boots for a more edgy Soho appeal.
As with any pair of pants fit is very important. The AA tights can be a bit tricky for shorter women, I would recommend wearing it with high heels, at least 2 - 3 inches. I've used the high waisted pant and shorts on a few shoots and I found it more aesthetically balancing to wear it with looser tops. Take a look.
Hey Becca,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with the versatility and 'ultra-coolness' of the American Apparel high waisted lame' collection. I've had the opportunity of styling several clients with them and they're always a winner!!! They really bring out your best assets and photograph extremely well. Keep the good news coming!
I was the biggest American Apparel hater. However, I've come around after falling in love with several of their tank dresses and their t-shirts. The quality of their clothing lines are amazing, and the different styles and looks you can gather from one simple garment is beyond words! Too bad their advertisements does a horrible job representing the true genius behind their awesome clothing line by over sexualizing both women and men in their ads.
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