Love Thyself Another Controversial Harvey Nichols Ad

For their sale earlier this year, Harvey Nichols created a 'contain yourself' advert series featuring models that had 'wet' themselves in excitement; now, they are urging Liverpool women to 'love thyself' in a bid to get customers excited about the opening of their Beauty Bazaar launching on 7 November in Liverpool.

The premise: their first ever beauty only outlet, "The Beauty Bazaar is a uniquely indulgent experience that allows you to recharge your batteries through a little self-love and 'me-time' according to Julia Bowe, Marketing Director.

We understand the "self-reflection" of the image, coupled with the strapline 'love thyself' and even the striking make-up, but unfortunately, as with the 'contain yourself' series, we feel these ads miss the mark. They're not controversial enough to be a statement like the United Colours of Benneton, but they are not simple enough to be a straight-forward advert - more like an advertising man's dream than an effective advert.

Of course, design is hugely subjective and others may love it, but the consensus in our office is that we don't like them. Happy to hear alternative viewpoints!