Who needs a copy when you are the original? Keds, the original American sneaker brand, rooted in heritage and authenticity, is revitalizing the concept of originality and self-expression in their Spring 2008 ad campaign. The ads, featuring Mischa Barton debuting Keds' latest spring styles, was unveiled at an event at The Box in New York City on December 5th, hosted by Barton.
The theme of the new campaign, "be true" is inspired by old Hollywood glamour along with Keds' classic Hollywood heritage, as noted icons Katherine Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn were devoted fans of the brand. Aptly, it was shot on a reconstructed movie set mirroring back lots of iconic films shot throughout the 1930's and 1940's. Photographed by world renowned fashion photographer Anne Menke and styled by Nikki Brewster, the shoot features Barton in the new spring 2008 collection, posing for her close-up, relaxing on set and enjoying the spotlight. The illustration of old Hollywood glamour is fused with modern slogans to give way to a campaign that is iconic yet relevant and relatable in the present. The campaign will break in March and will run in Lucky, Glamour, Vogue, Teen Vogue and InStyle.
"Mischa continues to be a great partner for the Keds brand and we are excited about this season's campaign. The debut of the new "be true" tagline hopefully inspires consumers to be true to their dreams while remaining authentic," said Shawn Neville, president of Keds.
Each of the ten ad layouts emphasizes Barton's natural sense of style while revealing Keds' "be true" positioning, an innovative concept in line with the brands conviction for individual originality. "Be something that matters, something that holds up under pressure, be what stands up when others fall. Be the real, the bona fide, the actual, the significant. Be yourself. Be true." This is the adage of spring 2008 which will be reflected within the campaign's inspiring copy.
About Keds
Since 1916 Keds has represented authenticity, quality and style. Style icons throughout the years have worn their Keds, and today Mischa Barton continues this trend as the spokesmodel for Keds. Keds has a myriad of styles from the classic champion sneaker to vintage inspired distressed slip-ons to ballet flats to pointy toe skimmers to lace-up active mary-janes, sneakers, and mules. Keds is a subsidiary of The Stride Rite Corporation, a company that produces and markets children's, women's, and men's footwear.
