When one of my female colleagues shoved this Mintel article under my nose yesterday, I nearly spat out my tea! Urban Decay have launched a new lip gloss, otherwise known as the 'Rocket Pocket'.
Their packaging plays on the old novelty 'female stripper pens', as they feature a 'yummy' man who is stripped down to his underwear when the lip gloss is tilted. Although this may not be appealing to the entire female population (particularly the more sophisticated consumer!), it will certainly appeal to the younger demographic. Even I'm tempted...just for the novelty factor of course!
Whilst on the subject of novelty - they even go as far as naming the lip glosses after the featured men. So if you fancy "American born, but schooled abroad, retaining many European sensibilities, including Italian bravado, French table manners, and German soccer skills" - then 'Eric' is the lip gloss/man for you!
As Mintel mention, '...any hint of controversy or scandal is only likely to further its appeal and boost sales. Marketing/advertising that focuses on chastity and modesty is not seen as particularly glamorous'. However, I'm not sure how successful the 'man with child' gloss will be - we were all in agreement that this was a little too disturbing!
