15 Ads That Show How Much Culture Has Changed
Old advertisements offer more than nostalgic charm — they reveal what people used to believe, accept, or admire. As times changed, many of these ads became symbols of how far society has come.
- Tricia Quitales
- 6 min read
Advertising has always reflected the values and attitudes of its time, often serving as a cultural mirror. Looking back at certain ads now, it’s clear how drastically public opinion, social norms, and sensitivities have evolved. What was once acceptable or even praised might now seem offensive, outdated, or simply strange. These ads highlight just how much society has shifted in terms of gender roles, race, health, and humor.
1. Tipalet Cigarette Ad (1960s)
Sera Cocora on Pexels
This ad showed a man blowing smoke into a woman’s face with the tagline, “Blow in her face and she’ll follow you anywhere.” It portrayed cigarettes as tools of attraction, ignoring the health risks and ethical boundaries. The message was both sexist and manipulative by today’s standards. Back then, it was considered edgy and playful. Today, it’s seen as inappropriate and irresponsible.
2. Pond’s Cold Cream – “Because You’re a Woman” (1950s)
cottonbro studio on Pexels
This ad implied that women should worry about their appearance solely to please men. The message placed beauty as a woman’s main priority in life. It reflected the era’s narrow expectations for femininity and personal worth. Such messaging would not be acceptable in modern beauty campaigns. Today’s skincare ads focus more on self-care and confidence.
3. Playtex Living Bra Ad (1970s)
Playtex on Wikimedia
This commercial featured women modeling bras in a way that was considered risqué for daytime television at the time. It stirred controversy for showing undergarments on real bodies instead of mannequins. Although mild by today’s standards, it marked a turning point in advertising and censorship. Public backlash highlighted discomfort with women’s bodies being visible in the media. The ad opened up conversations about modesty and representation.
4. Camel Cigarettes with Doctors (1940s)
The Camel Cigarettes Company on Wikimedia
These ads featured doctors recommending Camel cigarettes as a healthier choice. The campaign used medical authority to sell a dangerous product. Smoking was not yet linked to major health issues in public discourse. Today, using doctors in such a way would be unethical and illegal. The ad reflects how health knowledge and regulations have advanced.
5. Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix (Early 20th Century)
Unknown author on Wikimedia
The original ads used a stereotypical portrayal of a Black woman as a cheerful servant figure. It reinforced deeply rooted racial caricatures and reflected post-slavery ideologies. Over the years, the image was softened but never fully detached from its origins. The brand eventually retired the character altogether in response to growing awareness. It became a symbol of the ongoing fight for racial representation.
6. Chlorodont Toothpaste – “Men Kiss Women Who Use It” (1930s)
Unknown author on Wikimedia
This toothpaste ad promised romantic success as a reward for fresh breath. It implied that women needed approval through male attention. The use of fear and desire to drive hygiene habits was typical of the time. Today, such messaging would be considered manipulative and outdated. Modern oral care ads focus on personal wellness, not approval.
7. Schlitz Beer – “Don’t Worry Darling, You Didn’t Burn the Beer!” (1950s)
Daderot on Wikimedia
This beer ad showed a man reassuring his wife that burning dinner was fine because the beer still tasted good. It portrayed women as incompetent homemakers, using humor to excuse poor cooking. While intended as light-hearted, the joke relied on gender stereotypes. The ad would now be criticized for its patronizing tone. It reflects a time when domestic roles were heavily gendered.
8. Pepsi – Kendall Jenner Protest Ad (2017)
™/®PepsiCo, Inc. on Wikimedia
Meant to promote unity, this ad featured Kendall Jenner ending a protest by handing a police officer a can of Pepsi. It was accused of trivializing real social movements and protests. The backlash was swift, forcing the company to pull the campaign and apologize. The ad failed to respect the seriousness of the issues it portrayed. It showed how tone-deaf marketing can damage a brand.
9. Marlboro Man Ads (1950s–1990s)
Unknown author on Wikimedia
These ads promoted a rugged image of masculinity centered on smoking. The Marlboro Man became a cultural icon, despite the known dangers of tobacco. Over time, multiple actors who portrayed him died from smoking-related illnesses. Public opinion shifted as health campaigns gained traction. The ad is now remembered as a powerful but damaging cultural moment.
10. Calvin Klein Kids Underwear Ad (1995)
Peter Saville on Wikimedia
This campaign featured children in poses and lighting that critics argued were inappropriate and suggestive. It blurred the lines between fashion and exploitation. Though the brand claimed artistic intent, public concern forced a swift removal. The incident sparked industry-wide conversations about child protection in advertising. Today, similar imagery would not be tolerated.
11. BIC Pens for Her (2012)
Jess Bailey Designs on Pexels
BIC released pink pens “designed for women,” sparking widespread mockery and criticism. The product reinforced unnecessary gender separation in everyday items. Public response included sarcastic reviews and viral backlash. The company underestimated how sensitive consumers had become to gender marketing. It became a case study in what not to do in modern branding.
12. Weight Watchers “Before and After” Ads (Various Years)
Daderot on Wikimedia
These ads showed dramatic transformations with emotional taglines suggesting a person’s worth increased with weight loss. They often emphasized shame and unrealistic standards. While popular for decades, such campaigns began facing backlash for promoting body negativity. Today, wellness brands focus more on health and mental well-being. Cultural attitudes toward body image have shifted significantly.
13. Benetton “Shock Ads” (1990s)
Pentagram Studio on Wikimedia
Benetton ran a series of controversial ads featuring real photos of death, disease, and social unrest. The brand claimed the intent was to raise awareness, not sell clothes. Critics argued it exploited trauma for commercial gain. The ads sparked heated debates in media and marketing circles. They remain one of the most controversial campaigns in fashion history.
14. McDonald’s “Happy Meal Toys Are for Boys” Ad (1980s)
McDonald’s on Wikimedia
These early ads often promoted gender-specific toys, reinforcing stereotypes about what boys and girls should like. Action figures went to boys, while dolls went to girls. This division excluded many kids from simply choosing what they liked. Over time, the brand moved toward gender-neutral messaging. It reflected a broader change in how society views childhood identity.
15. Hardee’s Objectifying Ads (2000s)
Unknown author on Wikimedia
Known for ads featuring women eating burgers in provocative ways, Hardee’s leaned into shock value. These campaigns were aimed at young men and relied on outdated ideas about sex and food. Public criticism grew, especially from women and families. The chain eventually rebranded and distanced itself from those ads. The shift showed growing pressure for respectful advertising.