In 2010 more than ever media is a pervasive in all aspects of our lives. It could be said that media shapes our socialization more than any other factor, even our parents. Because of this unprecedented pervasiveness media has a responsibility to think about the messages it sends to the masses. Unfortunately the media bottom line comes down to making money and has little or no regard for social justice. Take the image from a Dolce and Gabbana ad above.
Everyone who is into fashion and trends knows that D&G sets the standard for whats in style and what's considered beautiful. If this is the case, what does this particular ad mean for girls and women? From the outside it would appear that what D&G is saying is that women must be thin blondes who have large red luscious lips, sexy nails and long legs. In addition it tells women that their only inherent value is in sex appeal. Not just in this ad but it the majority of D&G's ads women are selling products in sexually suggestive poses. One could assume that this message is not lost on girls and women and could mean they might think that their worth to society lies only in sex. Since these are all false generalizations, many women will be left out this idea of beauty devaluing their self worth and esteem.
This ad is not a realistic depiction of women and does damage to the self image of women girls all over the world. What's even more disappointing is that it suggests the only way for you to fulfill this false image and thereby gain self esteem is to sell the product D&G is hawking.
Great job, Michael. I love what you have written and couldn't agree more. It is absolutely critical that as men we step forward to stop this kind of oppression.
ReplyDeleteMichael... being a girl that does love her labels such as D&G, I was so upset to how many of the controversial ads I came across where ones in fashion magazines for brands that I love. It hards to admit but I agree that these ads affect girls images, because I know that I have felt this way a dozen times. I must also admit though that I love the fashion and the magazines, and I don't think that will ever change... but it would be great to see more "real women" depicted. We have all pretty much focused on women, being a guy, have you ever looked at men depicted in magazines and felt like men self esteem and self image have been distorted to the same extent?
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