How Are Women Portrayed In The 1950's

Industries often find target audiences for their products, and the hosiery industry is no exception. The product itself is designed for women, yet the ads in the 1950’s were designed to make women desire a man’s attention. Models were often posed provocatively, showing that they could have that sexual appeal if they bought the nylons. Advertisements enforced women’s societal roles, showing that they needed a man to be successful. Eventually, this changed. In the early 80’s, the ads began to focus on making women confident and happy. Instead of focusing on a man’s happiness, the ads began to focus directly on the women. These ads have transitioned from attracting men to focusing on self-confidence and women’s empowerment. The text of a Hilton hosiery ad produced in the 1950’s does not directly state anything about pleasing a man, but it is heavily implied. The text states, “They’re different because …show more content…
The creators of the ad used a famous, successful woman to help sell their product. She appears to be athletic and confident. The royal blue of her leotard provides a stark contrast against the whitewashed brick in the background. The ad does not have much color, so the bright blue dominates the visual and draws attention. Prowse’s body is posed athletically, making her look strong but graceful. Her face has a partial smile, as if she is in the middle of a routine. She is looking away from the camera, focused on her work. Makeup is subtle and her hair is pulled back, giving her an effortless beauty. This is done because L’eggs does not want to draw the focus to her face. The main focus is her right leg, which is pointed into the air. Her legs are tanned and toned, made to look even better with L’eggs. The visual provides the reader with a confident woman who achieved her self-confidence by wearing L’eggs, and that encourages women to buy the