Ads That Redefined Women’s Representation
March is here, and with it comes International Women’s Month! This month, we celebrate the incredible progress women have made across the world, breaking barriers and creating change. As a women-founded company, we’re inspired by the strength and resilience of women everywhere, and we’re proud to continue growing with passion and purpose.
#1 - Power Suit - Ralph Lauren (1980)
The power suit, a timeless symbol of women’s empowerment that first took hold in the early 1980s. This ad takes us to an era when female leaders were few but Ralph Lauren’s ad played a pivotal role in shaping that shift, introducing a new kind of woman—one who could confidently balance her career, motherhood, and, of course…the iconic power suit.
#2 - Equal Pay. Equal Time - Bulova Accutron (1972)
You know the saying, “We all have the same number of hours in a day”? Well, in 1972, Bulova Accutron took that idea and turned it into a game-changing ad. With the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) making waves, they released an ad that made a bold statement about equal pay for women.Simple yet powerful, this ad was a clever reminder that equality in the workplace isn’t optional—it’s something we all deserve!
#3 - Rosie the Riveter - Westinghouse Electric Corporation (1942)
An oldie but a goodie, this ad features the legendary Rosie the Riveter, flexing her muscles and delivering that iconic "We Can Do It!" message. With her red bandana, blue jumpsuit, and confident stance, she’s the ultimate symbol of girl power. Originally created during World War II to inspire women to join the workforce, this ad has since become a symbol of female strength and determination. It’s fun, bold, and an empowering reminder that when women get things done, they do it with style and power.
#4 - “Who Says it’s a Man’s World?” - Trans World Airlines (1953)
This ad is truly revolutionary! Back in the day, air travel was seen as a man’s domain, but TWA flipped the script with one simple question: "Who says it's a man's world?" With that bold move, TWA didn’t just promote their services, they sparked a cultural shift, opening doors for women in the workforce and beyond.
5 - #Like A Girl - Always (2014)
Here’s an ad that totally redefines the meaning of “like a girl.” Instead of letting the phrase be a putdown, Always turned it into a powerful complement. They asked, “What if doing something “like a girl” actually meant being strong, confident, and unstoppable?” It’s a fun and bold reminder that being a girl means owning your strength and confidence, no apologies needed!
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