re: bambie's post -
it's true that to me most american ad models, tv actors, etc. look like pageant contestants - big barbie hair (or perfectly coiffed with generous amounts of hair product, with nary a hair out of place), tiny little noses thanks to a nose job, fake boobs, porcelain veneers, airbrushed skin, mystic tan, lots of make-up (and all perfectly, precisely applied), and in print, way too much photoshopping. way too groomed and perfect to the point where there is no sexiness or sensuality left. nothing human.
i've lived most of my life in europe so i guess it makes sense.
I get the impression they're trying to sell more of a lifestyle/look rather than just the clothes themselves. The pieces that they offer are pretty basic. In their advertising, their models are the ones who make you desire what they have.
It's like this: "If you get this t-shirt, you can look as carefree and sexy as I do."
Backstory: I go clubbing all the time and I have lots of friends.
Their target audience is more of the younger Urban Outfitters crowd rather than people who are used to shopping at Neiman's and Saks. Therefore, their style of advertisement appeals to their target age group. I get the impression that the people who shop there a lot also read Nylon magazine and their style of advertising is something you would see in that magazine.
i must be too european too because i'd never have noticed anything on any of those links posted by myself. i'd much rather look at the american apparel site than say victoria's secret any day.
kind of like dormroom porn