Badvertising: The Gap’s Gender Gaffe
Gap’s sexist children’s clothing ad shows why attention to detail in copywriting is a must.
Badvertising: When Apple Didn’t Think Different
The band OK GO pitched Apple a video ad idea only to be turned down. Months later, Apple posted an uncannily similar video—and hired the same exact production crew. What ensued raised the question: who really owns an idea?
Badvertising: Welcome to Rhode Iceland!
When Rhode Island launched a promo video featuring stock footage of…Iceland, potential visitors were not impressed. This advertising failure highlights the importance of accuracy in marketing—and shows exactly how cutting corners can backfire.
Badvertising: Uncle Sam Says You’re Unattractive & Gullible
When the US Bureau of Consular Affairs tweeted a travel “safety” trip implying that U.S. travelers are unattractive and therefore likely to get scammed, people were not amused. Here’s how a poor attempt at humor can go awry.
Badvertising: Do These Jeans Make My Ad Campaign Look Fat?
Levi’s claimed that “hotness comes in all shapes and sizes,” but their photos told a different story. Levi’s looked woefully out of touch—but here’s how you can avoid the same trap.
