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- From Fossils to Flip-Flops: Ads That Go Way Off Script
From Fossils to Flip-Flops: Ads That Go Way Off Script
Furniture doing yoga. Dinosaurs at gas stations. A Halloween monster made from a step stool.
Welcome back to your daily marketing swipe file. The best ads, served fresh daily, and as tasty as your favorite slice of pepperoni pizza. 🍕 Let’s dig in.

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Product Pose Yoga
What’s happening: IKEA gets bendy with "Product Pose Yoga"—a campaign that reimagines its iconic furniture and home goods as yoga poses. A series of human figures stretch, twist, and balance into positions that mimic products like frying pans, stools, and pendant lights, all set against a signature IKEA-blue backdrop. It's weird, it's whimsical, and it’s unmistakably IKEA.

Why it’s awesome: This ad nails the intersection of branding and playfulness. It’s an unexpected, visual pun that turns everyday products into something totally human. By blending mindfulness (via yoga) with product recognition, IKEA shows off its design catalog without making it feel like a catalog. It’s quirky, memorable, and has that Scandinavian charm that makes you smile while wondering, “Wait… is that person impersonating a lamp?” Yes. Yes, they are.
Beware of Consequences
What’s happening: A security camera juts from the wall, but instead of a simple lens, it's carrying a miniature diorama of chaos—complete with tiny figurines capturing an office party gone wild. There's drinking, dancing, costumes, even someone photocopying their butt. In the corner, a tagline warns: “Beware of consequences.”

Why it’s awesome: It’s hilarious, relatable, and makes a serious point with playfulness. By turning the security cam into a stage for bad decisions, Ozom reminds us that when the camera’s on, everything’s on record. It’s visual storytelling that exaggerates just enough to land the punchline—and make you think twice before throwing a party at the office. Smart, bold, and seriously fun.

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Lose the Fossils
What’s happening: A friendly, wide-eyed triceratops in a reflective vest is fueling up a grimy diesel van at an old-school gas pump. It’s adorable, until you notice the tagline: “Lose the FOSSILS. Save with Electric.” The message is clear: using fossil fuels is straight-up prehistoric. Brought to you by SEAI and the Irish government, this PSA leans on humor and animation to push for a cleaner future.

Why it’s awesome: This is how you do public education without putting people to sleep. The cartoon dino is instantly lovable, making the message feel more like a Pixar short than a lecture. But the metaphor? Sharp as hell. Fossil fuels = fossils. Duh. By adding a dash of humor and visual storytelling, the ad turns guilt into action in a way that’s accessible, memorable, and family-friendly. It’s green marketing with bite—and a big smile.
The Fearniture Collection
What’s happening: A step stool casts a shadow on the wall… but wait — those eyes? That’s no ordinary shadow. It looks like a monster lurking in your home. IKEA turns its unassuming €5 BOLMEN stool into a Halloween creature using just lighting and a clever bit of visual illusion. At the bottom, a simple sign-off: Happy Halloween.

Why it’s awesome: This ad is a masterclass in minimalism meets mischief. IKEA doesn’t change the product, it just changes the perspective — and boom, everyday furniture becomes Halloween decor. It’s funny, smart, and 100% on-brand. No gore, no clichés — just a wink and a shadow. It’s proof that when your design team’s on point, even a step stool can scare up a smile. 🎃🪑👀

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More Colorful Days Are Coming
What’s happening: A vibrant, chaotic, cartoon explosion surrounds a single, bright orange Havaianas sandal. The background is drenched in neon pinks, wild doodles, dancing pineapples, floating heads, peace signs, and trippy vibes straight out of a retro acid dream. The sandal? Calm and centered like the eye of a very fun storm.

Why it’s awesome: This is pure visual serotonin. The ad doesn’t sell you the flip-flop — it sells you the feeling of wearing one. Freedom. Expression. Summer energy with zero stress. It’s not about walking — it’s about vibing. Havaianas has always leaned into joyful, easygoing style, and this turns that ethos up to 11. It’s not just colorful — it’s alive. A dopamine hit disguised as a brand ad.

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That’s a wrap! We hope these bold, fun, and inspiring ads gave you your daily dose of creative energy. See you soon for some more best-in-class marketing goodies!
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Disclaimer: All images and ads featured in this newsletter are the property of their respective creators and brands. They are used here for educational and commentary purposes only. If you are the copyright holder and would like your material removed, please contact us directly.