Abercrombie & Fitch, Whitney & Beth Marriage
The most overtly gay-specific that Abercrombie has ever done, these images from the Winter 2000 issue of A&F Quarterly, the company's own megalogue, depict a double wedding of the Emerson family. Ironically, the reply card responses include "No... I'm liberal, but not that liberal" with "Yes... I'd love to see two women get married."
Predictably, the issue caused some controversy, something that A&F Quarterly has experienced before over depictions of nudity and the use of alcohol, due to the brand's popularity with youth. The publication is now sold with a plastic covering only to those over 18 years old.
Secondly, I find it belittling that the lesbian bride is tugging at her garter. Again, the subtle cues are playing on the lesbians in a way that is less serious or expressive of inner sexiness. I think a lot of brilliant work could be done around this issue, I do not see it in this ad.
The quality of the casting, styling and photography is the asset to this ad. I applaud the topic, but would rate it a C.