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All-American Ads of the 80s

A nostalgic journey through 1980s advertising culture

Steven Heller author Jim Heimann editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taschen GmbH

Published:20th May '22

Should be back in stock very soon

All-American Ads of the 80s cover

This book offers a nostalgic look at the vibrant advertising landscape of the 1980s, showcasing how ads reflected the era's culture and consumerism. All-American Ads of the 80s is a delightful trip down memory lane.

The emergence of the digital world marked a significant transformation in the advertising landscape, yet the 1980s remained a time of bold consumerism. During this vibrant decade, cash, cocaine, and Calvin Klein advertisements epitomized a culture of excess. Despite the impending rise of cell phones and the decline of print media, advertisers continued to invest heavily in a period characterized by flamboyance and prosperity. The 1980s, often overshadowed by socio-political tensions, became a canvas for creative marketing that resonated with an eager audience.

As the Cold War began to wane and societal issues like crime and inflation reached alarming heights, the decade was unexpectedly defined by its indulgent spirit. With Ronald Reagan, a former movie star, at the helm, the era was infused with a sense of optimism and ambition. The mantra of 'greed is good' fueled the rise of the Yuppie culture, characterized by power dressing and a focus on personal success. Amidst this backdrop, the art world thrived, technology advanced, and quirky trends like the Rubik's Cube captivated the nation.

All-American Ads of the 80s captures the essence of this extraordinary decade, evoking nostalgia for iconic pop culture moments and advertising campaigns. Whether you fondly remember E.T. or the excitement of MTV, this book invites you to relive the vibrant energy of the 1980s, celebrating the advertisements that defined a generation and left an indelible mark on American culture.

“While a great visual record of print advertising of the time, it’s also a social history of the products being sold to Reagan’s America.” * Creative Review *

ISBN: 9783836588614

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 2081g

640 pages

Multilingual edition