Wow, 2025 was a wild ride for advertising. It felt like every brand was trying something new, and honestly, some of it really paid off. We saw a lot of campaigns that just felt *right*, tapping into what people were actually talking about or feeling. From celebrity collabs that were totally unexpected to brands getting super real about their products, it was a year that showed us how much creativity can still cut through the noise. Let’s take a look at some of the popular advertisements 2025 had to offer that really stood out.
Key Takeaways
- Many popular advertisements 2025 leaned into authenticity, using real people and relatable situations to connect with audiences.
- Celebrity partnerships, from actors to musicians, continued to be a strong strategy for brands looking to boost visibility.
- Nostalgia played a big role, with brands reintroducing popular campaigns or tapping into familiar cultural moments.
- Humor and unexpected stunts were effective tactics for generating buzz and social media sharing.
- Brands that took a clear stance on social issues or brand integrity, like Dove’s commitment against AI image distortion, found favor with consumers.
1. American Eagle and Sydney Sweeney: “Great Jeans”
Okay, so American Eagle and Sydney Sweeney dropped "Great Jeans" and, wow, did it get people talking. It was one of those campaigns that just stuck around for months, sparking all sorts of conversations, even spilling into the political arena. The whole "good genes" pun? It really got under some people’s skin, with accusations flying about supporting eugenics and white supremacy. On the flip side, others saw it as a bold, "anti-woke" statement.
It’s kind of wild how a simple ad can do that, right?
Here’s a quick look at the impact:
- Customer Growth: The campaign, along with a Travis Kelce collab, brought in nearly 800,000 new customers.
- Impressions: The Sweeney spot alone racked up a massive 40 billion impressions across platforms.
- Sales Boost: It was a big help for American Eagle, especially after a rough first quarter.
The big takeaway here is that controversy, when handled carefully, can really grab attention. American Eagle proved that even with some negative buzz, they could still make a splash. It’s a reminder for brands that sometimes, a little bit of calculated risk can be exactly what’s needed to reset and get noticed. Just gotta have a plan for when things get a little too heated, you know?
2. Gap and KATSEYE: “Better in Denim”
This year, Gap really brought it with their "Better in Denim" campaign, featuring the girl group KATSEYE. It felt like a throwback to the early 2000s music videos, you know, the ones with all the energy and style. They used Kelis’s "Milkshake" as the soundtrack, which was a total bop and instantly recognizable.
What made this ad stand out was how it celebrated diversity and inclusivity. It wasn’t just about selling jeans; it was about showing a range of people looking and feeling good in Gap denim. This approach really connected with a younger audience, making Gap feel accessible and cool again. It was a smart move, especially considering how other brands were trying to grab attention.
The campaign became Gap’s most viral ad ever, racking up millions of likes and views across platforms. It showed that when a brand embraces authenticity and reflects its audience, it can really make waves. It’s a great example of how to tap into nostalgia while still feeling completely fresh and relevant. This campaign definitely helped restore Gap’s fashion cred and reminded everyone why they’re a staple in denim fashion.
3. ChatGPT’s First Brand Campaign
Okay, so OpenAI finally decided to put ChatGPT out there with its very first big brand campaign in 2025. And you know what? They totally went the opposite direction of what you might expect. Instead of all that futuristic, sci-fi stuff, they focused on the everyday. Think about it: planning a vacation, figuring out a recipe that’s gone a bit sideways, or just getting a little help with work tasks. They showed how AI can actually be a helpful, normal part of our lives. It was a smart move, making something that can seem a bit intimidating feel way more approachable and, dare I say, human. It’s like they’re saying, ‘Hey, we’re not here to take over the world, we’re here to help you with yours.’ Pretty neat, right?
4. Barbie’s First Type-1 Diabetes Doll
This year, Barbie really stepped up its game with a move that felt both timely and important. They introduced Barbie’s first-ever doll designed with Type-1 diabetes. It wasn’t just about slapping a label on an existing toy; Mattel actually partnered with Breakthrough T1D to get it right.
This doll came equipped with realistic accessories that kids (and adults!) living with diabetes would recognize. We’re talking about an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor – details that make a big difference in representation. It’s a big deal when a brand like Barbie acknowledges and includes the experiences of children managing chronic conditions. This initiative was widely celebrated online for its commitment to inclusivity and accurate portrayal.
Here’s a quick look at what made this doll special:
- Realistic Medical Accessories: Included an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor.
- Authentic Design: Developed in partnership with Breakthrough T1D.
- Focus on Representation: Aimed to reflect the experiences of children with Type-1 diabetes.
It’s more than just a toy; it’s a step towards normalizing conversations around health conditions and ensuring more children see themselves reflected in the toys they play with. This kind of thoughtful product development really makes a brand stand out, and it’s something we saw a lot of positive feedback on throughout the year. It’s a great example of how brands can use their platform for meaningful representation, and it definitely made a splash in the advertising world.
5. Axe Turns a Bus Stop into an Arcade Game
Forget just slapping a logo on a billboard. Axe really went for it in 2025, transforming a totally normal bus stop into a giant, playable arcade game. Imagine waiting for your bus and suddenly you’re in the middle of a retro game, right there on the street. It was a pretty clever way to grab attention, turning a boring commute into something fun and unexpected.
This stunt wasn’t just about a cool visual; it was a smart move for social media. People were snapping photos and shooting videos of the bus stop arcade, and guess what? Those posts spread like wildfire online. Axe got way more eyes on their brand than a standard ad ever could, all because they made waiting for the bus an actual game.
Here’s what made it work:
- Unexpected Location: Taking a game out of an arcade and putting it in a public transit space was a surprise.
- Interactive Fun: People could actually play, making the experience memorable.
- Social Sharing: The novelty of it practically guaranteed people would share it online, giving Axe free publicity.
6. Heinz’s “Looks Familiar” Global Campaign
Heinz really leaned into something pretty smart with their "Looks Familiar" campaign. Instead of just slapping their logo on everything, they played on how instantly recognizable their products are just by their shape and color. Think about it: that iconic red ketchup bottle, you know it when you see it, even if the label is a bit blurry or turned away. It’s like they’re saying, "We’re so ingrained in your life, you don’t even need to see our name to know it’s us."
This campaign was all about tapping into that deep-seated brand recognition. It’s a clever way to remind people that Heinz isn’t just a condiment; it’s a part of everyday life, a familiar sight on tables everywhere. They didn’t need flashy celebrity endorsements or over-the-top stunts for this one. The power was in the simplicity and the universal understanding of their visual identity.
Here’s a breakdown of what made it work:
- Visual Cues: The ads focused on the distinct silhouette of the Heinz bottle and the vibrant red color of the ketchup, elements that are instantly associated with the brand.
- Nostalgia and Familiarity: By evoking a sense of "I’ve seen this before," Heinz tapped into the comfort and trust built over years of presence in consumers’ homes.
- Cultural Integration: The campaign subtly highlighted how Heinz has become a part of the cultural landscape, a go-to choice that people recognize without thinking.
It was a masterclass in brand awareness, proving that sometimes, the most effective advertising is the one that feels like a natural part of the world around us.
7. KFC x Stranger Things 5: “Hawkins Fried Chicken”
Alright, so with the final season of Stranger Things hitting Netflix, KFC decided to jump on the hype train. They rebranded a bunch of their spots as "Hawkins Fried Chicken" (HFC). It was pretty wild, showing employees going on these crazy adventures, like battling through a messed-up town and, you know, supernatural stuff, all to make sure people got their chicken.
It’s a classic move, right? Tie your brand into a massive pop culture moment.
Here’s the lowdown on what they did:
- The Big Idea: Turn KFC into a part of the Stranger Things universe for a limited time.
- The Story: Ads featured brave HFC employees facing down chaos to deliver chicken.
- The Goal: Capitalize on the massive Stranger Things fanbase and create some buzz.
Honestly, it was a pretty smart way to get people talking about KFC while everyone was already obsessed with Hawkins. It’s that kind of crossover marketing that just works when it’s done right, blending the familiar with the fantastical.
8. Waitrose’s 2025 Christmas Campaign: “The Perfect Gift”
Okay, so Christmas ads. They’re usually a whole thing, right? Lots of snow, maybe a sad reindeer, and then BAM, a family is reunited. Waitrose decided to shake things up for their 2025 Christmas campaign, "The Perfect Gift." Instead of going for the usual tear-jerker, they dropped a mini rom-com. Seriously, it felt more like a movie trailer than a grocery store ad.
The whole thing stars Keira Knightley and comedian Joe Wilkinson. They have this cute little meet-cute over a block of Sussex Charmer cheddar – yes, cheese. It’s playful, a bit self-aware, and honestly, pretty charming. It’s the kind of ad that makes you smile and think, ‘Okay, that was clever.’
Here’s what made it stand out:
- Unexpected Storytelling: They ditched the typical Christmas tropes for a genuine, albeit short, romantic comedy plot.
- Star Power: Having Keira Knightley and Joe Wilkinson definitely grabbed attention.
- Product Integration: The cheese wasn’t just a prop; it was central to their meeting, subtly reminding you it’s a Waitrose product.
- Tone: It was light, fun, and felt fresh in a season often dominated by overly sentimental ads.
It was a smart move that showed how a brand can be part of the festive spirit without resorting to the same old formula. It definitely got people talking, and that’s what you want, right?
9. Lewis Capaldi x Aldi — “Cap-Aldi” Rooftop Gig
Okay, so this one was pretty wild and definitely had people talking. Lewis Capaldi, the singer known for his emotional ballads and, let’s be honest, his hilarious social media presence, teamed up with budget supermarket Aldi for a surprise gig. They basically rebranded an Aldi store to be "Cap-Aldi" for a bit, and then Lewis popped up on the roof for a concert.
It was a total curveball, right? You wouldn’t expect a chart-topping artist to do a pop-up with a grocery store, but that’s what made it so good. It felt super spontaneous and just plain fun.
Here’s the lowdown on why it worked:
- Unexpected Pairing: Lewis Capaldi and Aldi? It’s the kind of combo that makes you do a double-take, and that’s exactly what brands want. It grabbed attention instantly.
- Humor and Playfulness: The whole "Cap-Aldi" thing was a clever nod to Lewis’s name and Aldi’s brand. It wasn’t taking itself too seriously, which is always a win.
- Social Media Gold: You know this blew up online. People were sharing photos and videos like crazy, creating tons of free buzz for both Lewis and Aldi. It was the kind of stunt that felt authentic and shareable.
Honestly, it was a smart move. It showed that marketing doesn’t always have to be super polished and serious. Sometimes, just doing something unexpected and fun is the best way to connect with people.
10. Jet2 – “Nothing Beats a Jet2 Holiday” Anthem
You know that feeling? The one where you’re stuck at your desk, staring out the window, dreaming of sunshine and zero responsibilities? Jet2 totally tapped into that vibe with their "Nothing Beats a Jet2 Holiday" anthem. It wasn’t just another ad; it felt like a collective sigh of relief and a cheer for getting away from it all.
This campaign really hit home by focusing on the universal desire for a break. They took everyday holiday frustrations – like the endless packing or the dreaded return journey – and spun them into something positive, celebrating the sheer joy of a Jet2 trip. It’s the kind of campaign that makes you want to book a flight right then and there.
Here’s what made it stand out:
- Relatable Scenarios: They showed real people, real holiday moments, and that feeling of pure escape.
- Catchy Tune: The anthem itself was super memorable, sticking in your head long after the ad was over.
- Focus on the Feeling: It wasn’t just about the destination; it was about the entire experience and the happiness that comes with it.
Jet2 understood that for many, a holiday isn’t just a trip; it’s a necessity, a chance to recharge and make memories. And honestly, who can argue with that?
11. Bumble — “For the Love of Love”
Bumble really leaned into the heart of their brand in 2025 with the "For the Love of Love" campaign. Instead of just showing happy couples, they decided to tell the actual stories of people who found each other through the app. It felt pretty genuine, you know? Like, real people, real connections.
They also did some behind-the-scenes stuff to make the app itself better. Think photo verification so you know who you’re talking to, and new features to help you find matches. Plus, they added a whole section for dating advice, which, let’s be honest, a lot of us could probably use.
Here’s a quick look at what made the campaign stand out:
- Authentic Storytelling: Featuring real couples and their journeys.
- Product Enhancements: Rolling out features like photo verification.
- Resource Hub: Launching a dedicated dating advice section.
It was a smart move, showing they care about more than just getting people to download the app; they want people to actually find meaningful relationships. It felt like Bumble was saying, ‘We’re here to help you find love, the real kind.’
12. Dyson — “Dyson Airbrow” April Fools Prank
Okay, so April Fools’ Day in 2025 was a wild one, and Dyson totally jumped in on the fun with their "Dyson Airbrow" prank. You know how Dyson makes those fancy hair tools like the Airwrap? Well, they pretended to launch a super tiny version specifically for styling eyebrows. It was so over-the-top and looked just like their other products, but, you know, for your brows.
The whole thing was a clever bit of marketing that played on their existing brand recognition. It got people talking and sharing, wondering if it was real or just a joke. That’s the genius of it, right? They created buzz without actually having to make a new product. It’s a great example of how brands can use social media for some lighthearted engagement.
Here’s a quick breakdown of why it worked:
- Surprise Factor: Nobody expected Dyson to make an eyebrow styler.
- Brand Consistency: It looked and felt like a real Dyson product, just miniaturized.
- Shareability: The absurdity made it perfect for social media sharing and discussion.
It really shows how a bit of humor and a well-timed prank can capture attention in the busy advertising world. It’s a reminder that not every campaign needs to be super serious to be effective. You can check out more about innovative social media strategies here.
13. Frankies Bikinis — Bella Hadid Collaboration
This year, Frankies Bikinis teamed up with none other than Bella Hadid for a collection that really turned heads. It wasn’t just another celebrity endorsement; this felt more personal, stemming from a friendship that’s apparently been going strong for over 15 years. That kind of history definitely adds a layer of authenticity, you know?
The whole vibe of the campaign leaned into a western, cowgirl aesthetic. Think dusty trails, wide-open spaces, and that effortless cool Bella Hadid is known for. It was a smart move, blending the supermodel’s distinct style with the brand’s swimwear offerings to create a narrative that felt fresh and engaging.
Here’s a quick look at what made this collab stand out:
- Deep Roots: The collaboration was built on a long-standing friendship between Hadid and the founder of Frankies Bikinis.
- Aesthetic Focus: A strong western/cowgirl theme tied the collection and campaign together visually.
- Social Buzz: The campaign successfully leveraged the identities of both the brand and the influencer to spark conversations online.
It really goes to show how powerful a well-executed influencer partnership can be when it feels genuine and aligns with a clear creative vision. This collaboration definitely made a splash in the swimwear world for 2025.
14. Dove — “Keep Beauty Real” Brand Integrity Platform
Dove really doubled down on their whole "Keep Beauty Real" thing in 2025. You know, the whole pledge about not messing with women’s photos using AI? It’s like they’re saying, "Hey, what you see is what you get."
This isn’t exactly new for Dove; they’ve been talking about real beauty for ages. But this campaign felt like they were putting a stake in the ground, especially with all the AI stuff popping up everywhere. It’s a pretty clear statement that they’re not going to digitally alter images to fit some impossible standard.
Here’s a bit of what they’ve been focusing on:
- No AI Image Distortion: They’ve committed to not using artificial intelligence to change how people look in their ads.
- Authenticity Over Perfection: The whole point is to show women as they are, flaws and all, which is a pretty bold move in advertising.
- Brand Purpose: It’s more than just selling soap; it’s about standing for something, and for Dove, that’s always been about celebrating natural beauty.
It’s kind of refreshing, honestly. In a world where filters and editing are everywhere, Dove is trying to be a bit of an anchor to reality. They want people to feel good about themselves, not stressed about looking like a Photoshopped version of someone else. It’s a long-term play, for sure, but it seems to be working for them.
15. WWF Denmark — “The Hidden Cost”
WWF Denmark really hit us with a dose of reality in 2025 with their "The Hidden Cost" campaign. It wasn’t just another pretty ad; it was a stark reminder of what we’re actually paying for when we buy things.
They used some seriously striking visuals to show the connection between our everyday purchases and the damage done to animal habitats. Think about it: that new gadget, the clothes we wear, even some of the food we eat – it all has a price beyond the sticker. This campaign made that price impossible to ignore. It forced us to look at the environmental toll behind the convenience we often take for granted.
The campaign cleverly juxtaposed common consumer goods with images of disappearing wildlife, making a powerful statement about habitat destruction. It’s a tough message, but sometimes you need that jolt to make people think. It really makes you pause and consider the bigger picture before you click ‘add to cart’.
Here’s a breakdown of what made it so effective:
- Visual Storytelling: Powerful imagery that directly linked products to environmental impact.
- Emotional Connection: Tapped into empathy for wildlife and concern for the planet.
- Call to Awareness: Encouraged consumers to think critically about their buying habits.
It’s a great example of how advertising can be used not just to sell, but to educate and inspire change. You can see more about their work on WWF Denmark’s environmental efforts.
This campaign was a real standout, reminding us that every purchase has consequences, and it’s up to us to be more mindful of what those are.
16. Astronomer x Gwyneth Paltrow
So, data analytics startup Astronomer found themselves in a bit of a pickle. Instead of going the usual route with crisis management, they did something totally unexpected. They hired Gwyneth Paltrow, of all people, to be their spokesperson. And get this – it was all a bit of a joke.
In a video titled “Thank you for your interest in Astronomer,” Paltrow plays it up, talking about the company’s recent outage like it’s some kind of exclusive event. She even pretends to faint on camera, which, honestly, is pretty funny. It was a super self-aware move, put together by Ryan Reynolds’ agency, Maximum Effort. The whole thing went viral, with the YouTube clip alone getting almost 700,000 views. It just goes to show that sometimes, leaning into the absurdity is the best way to handle a tough situation. Who knew Gwyneth Paltrow would be the face of data analytics crisis PR?
17. Duolingo’s Mascot “Duo” Death
Okay, so Duolingo really went there in 2025. They decided to kill off their beloved green owl mascot, Duo. It sounds wild, and honestly, it kind of was. They started dropping these super dramatic, almost cryptic posts online, hinting that Duo was gone. Then, they dropped a video that was just… a lot. It showed Duo getting absolutely flattened by a Tesla Cybertruck. I mean, talk about a plot twist nobody saw coming.
What was really interesting, though, was the reaction. People were genuinely upset! Like, actual mourning happened across social media. It was a whole thing. Fans were sharing sad memes, posting tributes, and generally freaking out. It just goes to show how much people connect with this little owl.
But, plot twist number two: it wasn’t permanent. The whole thing culminated in Duo being brought back to life, thanks to the fans themselves. It was a masterclass in social media engagement. The TikTok announcement alone for this whole saga pulled in a mind-blowing 120 million views. It was a risky move, for sure, but it definitely got everyone talking and kept Duolingo at the top of everyone’s minds.
18. Nike – “So Win” (Super Bowl LIX Ad)
Nike really brought their A-game to Super Bowl LIX in 2025 with their ad, "So Win." It was their first big Super Bowl commercial in ages, and wow, did they make an entrance. The whole thing was shot in striking black and white, giving it this really powerful, cinematic feel.
They featured some seriously impressive female athletes, like Caitlin Clark and Sha’Carri Richardson, who just owned the screen. The ad was set to this intense, driving anthem that just made you feel something. It was a smart move, honestly, because it tapped right into the growing excitement and attention around women’s sports.
Here’s a quick look at what made it stand out:
- Cinematic Visuals: The black-and-white filming gave the ad a timeless, epic quality.
- Athlete Power: Showcasing top female athletes brought a strong, inspiring message.
- Anthem Score: The music choice amplified the ad’s emotional impact.
- Cultural Relevance: It perfectly aligned with the surge in interest for women’s athletics.
It felt like Nike was both honoring their legacy and looking forward, all in one 60-second spot. It definitely got people talking and reminded everyone why Nike is such a big name in sports advertising.
19. Chili’s “Fast Food Financing” Pop-Up
Okay, so Chili’s really went for it in April 2025 with this "Fast Food Financing" pop-up. They set up shop right next to a McDonald’s in Manhattan, and get this – it looked like a shady payday loan place. The whole idea was to poke fun at how expensive everything’s gotten, offering "loans" to cover your fast food cravings. It was a pretty wild stunt to launch their new Big QP burger, and honestly, it worked. People were lining up for hours, and the buzz it created was huge.
Here’s a quick rundown of the stunt:
- The Setup: A fake storefront designed to look like a sketchy financial lender.
- The Pitch: Offering "financing" for fast food meals, playing on inflation woes.
- The Goal: To draw attention to Chili’s new Big QP burger and generate buzz.
This guerrilla marketing move definitely got people talking, snagging massive media attention and showing that even casual dining chains can get creative with their promotions. It was a clever way to connect with consumers feeling the pinch of rising prices, making light of a serious issue while still promoting their food. It’s the kind of bold, unexpected marketing that sticks with you.
20. State Farm – “Batman vs. Bateman”
You know, sometimes the best marketing isn’t what you planned. State Farm had this whole big Super Bowl ad ready to go, probably featuring some caped crusader. But then, wildfires hit California, and they made a really smart pivot. Instead of just ditching the ad, they reworked it into something called "Batman vs. Bateman."
Basically, they got Jason Bateman to try and fill in for Batman, and let’s just say it didn’t go quite as planned. It was pretty funny, honestly. The whole thing was a great example of being quick on your feet. They managed to salvage their ad spend and still get a ton of attention, even more than some of the actual Super Bowl ads.
Here’s a quick look at how it stacked up:
- Agile Campaign Rework: Turned a planned Super Bowl ad into a March Madness campaign.
- Humorous Execution: Featured Jason Bateman humorously failing to be Batman.
- Significant Engagement: Amassed 16 million social media interactions.
- Timely Pivot: Showed adaptability in response to real-world events.
21. State Farm – “Trainer” with Patrick Mahomes and Meghan Trainor
State Farm really leaned into the whole ‘we’re not like other insurance companies’ vibe again in 2025 with their ‘Trainer’ ad. This time, they roped in football star Patrick Mahomes and pop singer Meghan Trainor for a spot that was, well, pretty funny. The ad, called ‘Trainor vs. Trainer,’ had Meghan playing the role of Patrick’s personal trainer.
It was a bit of a wild pairing, right? But it totally worked. Meghan got to play around with her own song lyrics, like a funny nod to ‘all about that bass’ becoming ‘all about that brace’ – you know, for athletic injuries. It felt like they were trying to keep that same ‘not the same’ energy they had with the Bateman ads, just with a different, more musical twist.
What was cool, though, was how they brought in Mahomes’ actual trainer. It was a subtle way to highlight women in sports, which felt like a nice touch. The whole thing ran everywhere – TV, streaming, social media – so you probably saw it whether you were looking for it or not. It’s that kind of unexpected humor and celebrity mashup that makes you do a double-take.
22. Dunkin’ – “Shake That Ess” with Sabrina Carpenter
Okay, so Dunkin’ really went for it in early 2025 with their "Shake That Ess" campaign, and honestly, it was kind of brilliant. They teamed up with Sabrina Carpenter, riding the wave of her hit song "Espresso." The whole idea was to create this fun, music-video-style ad where Sabrina is, you know, shaking her iced brown sugar espresso drink. It’s a bit cheeky, playing on the song title, and it totally worked for grabbing attention.
This campaign wasn’t just about a catchy tune, though. It was a smart move to connect with a younger audience who are already fans of Carpenter. The tongue-in-cheek approach felt very current, and it definitely made Dunkin’ stand out from the usual coffee shop ads. They even had a special limited-edition drink that dropped around the same time, tying everything together nicely.
Here’s a quick look at what made it work:
- Playful Puns: The campaign name itself was a clever nod to the song, making it instantly memorable.
- Celebrity Power: Leveraging Sabrina Carpenter’s popularity brought a huge built-in audience.
- Visual Appeal: The music video aesthetic made the ad engaging and shareable.
- Product Focus: It highlighted a specific drink, encouraging people to try it.
It’s the kind of campaign that makes you smile and maybe even crave an espresso. Dunkin’ really nailed the vibe, making their brand feel fresh and fun.
23. Coors Light – “Case of the Mondays.”
Ugh, Mondays. We all know that feeling, right? That general sense of dread that kicks in as the weekend wraps up. Well, Coors Light decided to take that universal pain and turn it into something kinda brilliant for early 2025. They basically embraced the "Monday blues" and made it their marketing moment, especially around the Super Bowl.
Their big idea was to play with the concept of refreshment when you’re feeling less than thrilled about the start of the week. They even rolled out this super limited-edition "Mondays Light" six-pack, which, let’s be honest, sounds like something you’d grab just for the novelty. But the real showstopper? They created this "Chill Face Roller." Picture this: it’s shaped exactly like a Coors Light can, but it’s meant to be an ice-cold facial roller. Talk about a weirdly specific, yet oddly appealing, product.
And get this, they intentionally messed with their website, printing "REFERSHMENT" instead of the actual word. It was a small detail, but it totally got people talking, especially online. The whole stunt went pretty viral, popping up on places like Reddit and LinkedIn. It’s funny how a little bit of playful imperfection can grab so much attention. The campaign managed to snag a massive 12.6 billion media impressions, proving that sometimes, leaning into the collective groan of a Monday is a surprisingly effective strategy. Fans apparently snatched up those Chill Face Rollers in minutes, which just goes to show that a clever, relatable idea can really hit the mark.
24. Coca-Cola – “Share a Coke” Relaunch
Remember when Coca-Cola put names on their bottles? Yeah, that was a huge deal back in the day. Well, they decided to bring that whole "Share a Coke" thing back for 2025, but with a fresh, modern spin. This time around, it wasn’t just about finding your name or a friend’s name on a bottle. They added QR codes to the mix.
This relaunch cleverly blended the old-school charm of personalized bottles with new tech. People could scan these codes and then whip up their own video messages or even memes. It was all about making that connection a bit more digital and shareable, which totally makes sense for today’s world. The ads themselves still had that classic feel-good vibe, showing groups of friends hanging out, but now they were nudging everyone to create and share their own digital content too. It was a smart way to keep a beloved campaign alive and kicking for a new generation.
25. Overheard at Wimbledon: The Reality Show We Never Knew We Needed and more
Okay, so Wimbledon. Usually, it’s all about the tennis, right? But in 2025, they really leaned into something different. They basically turned the whole event into a reality show, and honestly, it was kind of brilliant.
Think about it: all those little moments between points, the player reactions, the crowd buzz – they captured it all. It wasn’t just about who won or lost; it was about the whole vibe. It felt super real, like you were actually there, getting all the behind-the-scenes drama without it being too much.
Here’s what made it stand out:
- Capturing genuine moments: They weren’t staging anything. It was just raw, unscripted tennis life.
- Bringing viewers closer: You felt more connected to the players and the atmosphere.
- A fresh take on sports coverage: It showed that sports events can be more than just the game itself.
It really tapped into that desire for authenticity that everyone was looking for in 2025. It proved that sometimes, the best content is just watching real life unfold, especially when it’s as intense and exciting as a Grand Slam tournament.
Wrapping Up 2025’s Ad Scene
So, looking back at 2025, it’s pretty clear that ads that felt real and connected with people were the ones that really stuck. We saw brands get playful, get serious, and sometimes just get plain weird, but it all seemed to work when it felt genuine. Whether it was a celebrity doing something unexpected or a brand just leaning into what makes it unique, the campaigns that got us talking were the ones that weren’t afraid to be themselves. Hopefully, seeing these examples gives you some ideas for what’s next. Happy holidays, and here’s to more great ads in 2026!
Frequently Asked Questions
What made the American Eagle and Sydney Sweeney ad stand out?
The American Eagle ad featuring Sydney Sweeney got a lot of attention because of a clever wordplay. It used “Great Jeans” which sounded like “Great Genes.” This led to different people talking about it, with some seeing it as a political statement and others as just a fun ad. It really got people talking!
How did Gap and KATSEYE’s campaign feel different?
Gap teamed up with the girl group KATSEYE for a campaign called “Better in Denim.” It brought back the cool vibe of music videos from the early 2000s. It made people feel nostalgic but also felt new and exciting, showing off the jeans in a fresh way.
What was unique about ChatGPT’s first big ad?
Instead of showing a futuristic world, ChatGPT’s first campaign focused on everyday life. It showed how the AI could help with simple things like planning a trip or cooking. This made AI seem less scary and more like a helpful friend for everyone.
Why was the Barbie doll with Type-1 diabetes important?
Mattel worked with a diabetes group to create a Barbie doll that has Type-1 diabetes. This doll came with pretend medical items like an insulin pump. It was a big deal because it showed more kids that they could see themselves in toys, making it a moment for better representation.
How did Axe make a bus stop more exciting?
Axe turned a normal bus stop into a giant arcade game! People waiting for the bus could actually play the game. This made a boring place fun and memorable, and lots of people shared pictures and videos online, which helped Axe get noticed.
What was the idea behind Heinz’s “Looks Familiar” campaign?
Heinz used its well-known look and colors in its “Looks Familiar” campaign. The ads didn’t always show the logo, but people knew it was Heinz because of the shape of the bottle and the red color. It showed how much people recognize and trust the Heinz brand.
