Vogue Sparks Controversy With Gucci Ad

Conde Nast’s heavyweight fashion magazine Vogue has ignited a wave of controversy after publishing a controversial Gucci ad in next month’s edition.

The ad, shot by acclaimed photographer Mario Testino, depicts a model with her pubic hair shaved into Gucci’s trademark “G” symbol, while being pushed against a wall by a male model.

A spokesperson for the ASA told NewsLine: “We have received phone calls about the ad but we have not received any written complaints and we only investigate written complaints.”

It seems likely the ad will draw further criticism after it was publicised in today’s Daily Mail. However a spokesperson for Vogue has stood by the ad, commenting in the same newspaper:”The new Gucci advert is running in every important fashion magazine in Europe and Asia. It’s been perfectly created by Tom Ford, the genius behind Gucci. For 80 years Vogue has had the tradition of publishing cutting-edge photography and advertising and we’re reluctant to censure creative work.”

This is not the first time that Vogue has been under pressure for its adverts and choice of creative work. Women’s groups and health organisations have criticised the magazine for its use of emaciated models which many believe have contributed to the inexorable rise in eating disorders, such as anorexia, amongst young women.

ASA: 020 7580 5555 www.asa.org.uk

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