Remember when the word ‘gay’ meant happy? I do, because as a child I had books and heard songs about “happy and gay” straight people. I’m sure today’s younger genearation is only aware of the homosexual connotation, which is totally fine… but they would probably find the following ads a tad bit puzzling:
Just take Ovaltine at bedtime and wake up... gay
Midol takes away periodic pain and makes you gay. Not bad!
Gee, you really didn't have to...
I want a gay home. I really do.
Gay Johnny looks a little sad today...
He should ditch Texas and go on a Gay cruise.
Totally adorable potential Pride parade souvenirs
Now these following ads don’t have the word ‘gay’ in them, but I think they were targeting the demographic.
It's so much fun being in the army!
I guess Barbie got rid of him -- Allan, the erstwhile "buddy" of Ken.
Disclaimer(as of June 2010): Turns out the ad below is a parody of an original vintage ad by Jantzen. Sorry!
My favorite ad - you just have to do a double-take. Lure him away from the poolboy?! Peek-a-boo trunks?!
For more vintage gay ads, click HERE
Katnip 