The Fashion Word and Image

Oprah's "O" Magazine

           

            Oprah Winfrey is known across the globe for her renowned wisdom in health, spirit, style, relationships, home and garden, food, entertainment, and money. So it is no surprise that she created, “O, the Oprah Magazine,” which includes the power through word and image interaction.

            In this specific advertisement in her magazine, we see as readers, various Lauer, McCloud, and Albers concepts. In a general sense, it portrays a “season of color” which connotes the vivid styles of spring or summer. Every single item is represented in a bright and playful color, with cheap, attention-grabbing prices. However, if we look closely, the page is filled with continuous lines, in very organized frames, balancing both fashion items and descriptions.

            Looking at the color emphasis, scale, and proportions, they all highlight that all the items are “Great buys under $100.” By noting in small text underneath, that it is a “season of color” it is a powerful way of influencing the reader and saying that if you don’t wear bright colors this season, then you will not be “in” style or fashionable. Also, the way they have written the price and descriptions of the products, create unity. They are all put in a bright red box which is a classic color used for power. It is interesting to note what is not included in the frame. The ad seems to be directed at a certain social class because of the cheap prices listed, when Oprah herself can afford much higher fashion designer brands. This must have something to do with the purpose or idea of the ad itself in relation to the intended audience. Oprah instills her culture by appropriated the common colors and styles of African Americans. The bangle bracelets, brightly floral patterned tunic, beaded necklace, colorful pants, and eye-popping shirts all depict the style, colors, and taste of her race and ethnicity. However, there is some discourse when each piece is inspired from other cultures then her own. She is advertising African, Indian, Hindu, and Indonesian fashion, as well as whimsical, vintage, and the fitted-conservative styles. While the ad as a whole looks well blended, as separates, they are all contradicting styles. By combining multicultural styles together, Oprah is using her status and prestige to give a voice for everyone across the map. All in all, Oprah’s fame largely influences the reader’s perception of what is “in” this season, what to buy, where to buy it, and how much it is. Yet it is the cleverness of the way word and image are depicted in her magazine that ultimately make the reader either want to buy these items, or reject her advice.