100 brilliant print adverts

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In these days of digital media, it's easy to overlook the art of print ads. But the medium is still as relevant and powerful as vintage posters ever were, whether small scale magazine ads or huge billboard advertising. 

As Paul Arden states in It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want To Be: "Print advertising should be recognisable at a hundred paces, and it should be obvious who it's an ad for without seeing the brand name."

No matter what the medium, you still need a concept that's going to stick in people's minds. We think these examples of print advertising do just that.

01. KFC

Kill it. Kill it with fire

If there's one thing we all know about KFC, it's that it's finger-lickin' good, and it's this irrefutable fact that's inspired this series of frankly unsettling print ads. In them, everyday objects suddenly sprout mouths wherever your fingers might touch them, in the hope of licking off a little of the Colonel's chickeny goodness. It's the work of Zane Zhou, along with LamanoStudio in Chile. Thanks for tonight's nightmares, guys.

02. Kiss with Pride

Thought-provoking stuff from Absolut

It's been 50 years since homosexuality was decriminalised in England and Wales, but today it's still illegal in 72 countries around the world – and punishable by death in eight. To highlight this fact, Absolut, in collaboration with LGBTQ charity Stonewall and BBH London, created this series featuring close-up shots of same-sex kisses, with many of the subjects coming from the countries where these kisses could land them in prison, or worse.

03. Pass the Heinz

Feeling a sense of déjà vu?

If these clever adverts for Heinz look kind of familiar, it's with good reason. They originally featured in an episode of Mad Men where Don Draper tried to pitch a series of ads showing food that goes great with ketchup, but without the ketchup itself visible. Draper argued that people would fill in the gaps for themselves and create a stronger association in their mind, but Heinz wasn't going for it. Now, however, the company's changed its mind and, with DAVID Miami, rolled out these near-exact reproductions of Draper's pitch; talk about a man ahead of his time.

04. Burger King

Maybe get a takeaway rather than eat in, yeah?

Burger King prides itself on flame-grilling its burgers rather than frying them, but we all know how fire can misbehave if you don't keep a close eye on it, right? Burger King holds the record for the most restaurants that have burned down since 1954, and that's the brilliant angle seized by DAVID Miami in one of its many innovative campaigns for the company, using genuine photos of blazing BKs to emphasise how it cooks its burgers.

05. Delta Dating Wall

Most of this print ad was hand-painted by Colossal Media

According to Delta, world travellers are more likely to attract right swipes on Tinder, but what if you can't afford to go away to snap that perfect profile pic? That's what Delta – along with Wieden + Kennedy New York and Colossal Media – addresses with the Delta Dating Wall, an epic advert in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, featuring exotic backdrops that you can stand against for a selfie, instantly making you a lot more windswept and interesting.

06. Chambord

Like a randomly placed cabbage? Go for it! No reason needed.

Wieden+Kennedy London was tasked with raising the profile of Chambord among a target audience of women aged 24-35. It used the campaign to push back against the pressure on women to conform to certain rules with its "Because No Reason" tagline that encourages people to do what they like, just because they like it.

07. TK Maxx

It's true: there is crazy knitwear in TK Maxx

You never know what you'll find when you go shopping in TK Maxx, and this aspect of the designer discount shop is brought to the fore by this campaign emphasising the "ridiculous possibilities" that lie inside.

08. Jeep

Deer or penguin? You decide.

The meaning of the tagline "See whatever you want to see" is smartly turned on its head with a series of images that can be seen in two ways: one way it's a deer, the other way it's a penguin. 

09. Penguin Audiobooks

The Miami Ad School saves paper with this clever print ad

You've got to give it to the Miami Ad School – taking a company that have made their worth through the selling of paper books, this print ad is a bold step but one that we think works really well. The intricate illsutration in the bark is a lovely touch.

10. Gripex

Ogilvy & Mather lend their talents to another successful print ad

Ogilvy & Mather once again prove themselves as print advertisement masters with this clever approach to allergy medicine. Using simple yet effective colours and simple illustrations means that this is an ad that pops from the page.

11. UNEP: Skyline

This print ad brings the message of global warming home

Print advertisments raising awareness of important causes such as global warming have to be instantly striking. This offering from Vinay Saya and Siddarth Basavaraj cleverly uses Photoshop to produce a skyline within the ice. Bringing the campaign closer to home will enable the viewer to recognise the message quicker and more effectively.

12. Fevikwik Instant Adhesive: Teapot

The monochrome colour scheme perfectly compliments the output

Ogilvy & Mather are known for creating some of the best print advertisements around the world. This is just another example of their brilliant work. Created for Fevikwik Instant Adhesive, it's one of a three-part print advertisement series that uses clever illustration and a monochrome colour scheme to its fullest potential.

13. Rolling Stone

Rock music meets photoshop with this simple and sleek print ad

Created by DLV BBDO in Milan, Italy, this simple execution works wonders for music magazine Rolling Stone. With a brilliant tag line 'We are made of rock,' the brand's attitudes, product and ethos are effortlessly put across with this print advertisement. Using a signature-like font also showcases the rock star aesthetic.

14. Ashtanga Yoga

This brilliantly inventive ad hones in on the benefits of yoga practise for your back

Created by Israel based advertising agency McCann Erickson, this print ad for Ashtanga Yoga hones in on the benefits of yoga practise for your back. With a tag line "Before your back attacks you, Ashtanga Yoga at the Garage fitness club", it's a brilliantly inventive ad.

15. Clinica Mosquera

We love how Ecuador advertising agency BBA has applied playful imagery to a sore subject

Although this print advertisement might be a bit too graphic for some, we love how Ecuador advertising agency BBA has applied playful imagery to a sore subject. The 3D rendering is brilliant with everything from the colour to the shading popping out of the page.

16. Penguin Books

Last year, Penguin Books promoted its audiobooks with a brilliant print ad campaign featuring illustrations of three well known authors - William Shakespeare, Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde - acting as headphones and whispering in the ears of their listeners.

Developed by team at McCann Worldgroup India, the campaign went on to won a Gold Press Lion at Cannes International Festival of Creativity

17. Moms Demand Action

Moms Demand Action as if a Kinder Egg is banned in the US to protect children, why not assault weapons?

Moms Demand Action, a collective of mothers calling for gun law reform, was behind this hard-hitting ad campaign, which focused on children in schools.

'Choose One' features children carrying weapons, alongside classmates holding either a Kinder Surprise egg, the book 'Little Red Riding Hood' and a ball from the schoolyard game Dodgeball. One child is holding something that's been banned in America to protect them, with the audience asked to guess which one.

18. Expedia

This ingenious pad campaign by Ogilvy & Mather for travel brand Expedia uses airport IATA codes to great effect. The idea came about after the team noticed a woman walking through Heathrow with the word FUK hanging off her suitcase.

With over 9,000 airports around the world, each with its own three-letter code to choose from, the team created a series of prints, using a tagline in the form of passport stamp, which says 'Find whatever floats your boat'.

19. Whiskas

The 'Big Cat, Small Cat' campaign depicts a small furry feline as a big cat in the wild

Abbott Mead Vickers BBDO Whiskas campaign features a household cat in various scenarios in the wild of Africa. Highlighting the basic instincts in a cat, the clever 'Big Cat, Small Cat' campaign was shot by photographer George Logan.

Depicting a small furry feline as a big cat in the wild, the series of prints include the domestic animal hunting down gazelles, elephants and zebras in the wild. And we're particularly fond of the ad that shows fully grown male lion bonding with the same cat as if they were family.

20. Mini

We love this clever Halloween-inspired Mini campaign

When you have such an iconic product as the Mini, you don't always have to do something particularly clever or involved to make your point. And this silly campaign, casting the much-loved motor in an uncharacteristically sinister light, struck just the right note of fun for us last Halloween.

21. WWF

BBDO Spain created this powerful print ad to highlight the issue of extinction

Earlier this month, BBDO Spain released this powerful print ad campaign for the World Wildlife Fund. Featuring a white polar bear in a garage workshop, the aim is to highlight that there are no tools that can fix extinction.

22. Velo marathon

AD McCann Vilnius designed this clever print ad for the annual Velo marathon

We love this design for the European Velo Marathon, an annual biking event in which around 10,000 cyclists take part. Designed by McCann Erickson, Lithuania, the clever concept features a city-like scene set on the gears of a bike, accompanied by the tagline 'Move the City'.

23. Volkswagen

Turn on your adventure with this new print ad campaign for Volkswagen

To advertise the fact that you can get more than 620 miles out of single tank of fuel with Volkswagen's Amarok, ad agency Below developed a series of print ads, inviting people to 'turn on adventure'. The clever concept features three images with the groves of the car keys transformed into a city, safari and mountain landscape.

24. Alzas Bajas magazine

This beautiful print ad was developed by JWT for Argentinian magazine Alzas Bajas

This beautiful print ad was developed by JWT, Buenos Aires for Argentinian magazine Alzas Bajas. The team created four paper art images, including this gorgeous wildlife scene. Each are accompanied a small amount of explanatory text followed by the tagline 'more information, less risk'.

25. McDonald's

TBWA Shanghai developed this cool new print ad featuring a box of fries carved out of a potato

McDonald's is constantly coming up with innovative new ways of advertising, this brilliant print ad being its latest offering. The eye-catching design, created by TBWA Shanghai, features a box of fries, carved from the very ingredient from which they're made.

Next page: 25 more brilliant examples of print ads

26. Duracell

We love print ads that come out of left field - and this is certainly one of them

Terrifying but brilliant, this is one of those print ads that shouldn't work but somehow does. The advertisement for Duracell features a sinister-looking doll in the doorway of a little girl's playroom, accompanied by the tagline 'Some toys never die'.

Developed by advertising agency Grey in Singapore, this is certainly a unique way to promote longer-lasting batteries. It's a bit left-field, and completely terrifying, but we love it nonetheless.

27. Dog Chow

There aren't many print ads that treat dogs so badly - but no animals were harmed in the making of this commercial

The best print ads manage to combine brilliant art direction whilst still maintaining the brand's image and ethos. And here's a great example that instantly put a smile on our faces.

Dog Chow is a brand new dog food from Purina and Columbian designer Cristhian Ramírez was tasked with creating a series of ads for its latest campaign, entitled 'Stop treating your dog like a trashcan'. The creative director and head of art at Publicis, Ramírez produced a number of striking character designs that really hit home when it comes to the health of your dog.

28. SANCCOB

Inspired by the artwork of Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher, these print ads feature clever optical illusions

A species in rapid decline, the African penguin needs help. South African advertising agency Bittersuite and SANCOOB, a non-profit organisation that aims to protect threatened seabirds, recently developed this innovative series of print ads to raise awareness of the penguin's critical situation.

Inspired by the artwork of Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher, two of the designs feature clever optical illusions to draw the viewer in for a closer look and get their message across. The third draws inspiration from optometrists' eye charts, featuring a timeline of different sized penguins to show the decline in the species.

29. Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF)

The cartoon-style characters and graphics in these print ads maintain a fun, tongue-in-cheek element

Ad agency McMillan encourage animation lovers to rediscover the child inside with this new print ad campaign promoting the Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF).

Each of the five print ads features a gorgeous illustration and the tagline 'Get in touch with your inner child'. Some of the drawings contain mature content but the cartoon-style characters and graphics maintain a fun, tongue-in-cheek element to the campaign.

30. Dumb Ways to Die

From digital to print - Dumb Ways to Die works perfectly with both

Back in November, Melbourne Australia's Metro train system decided to take a different approach to public safety video. Their ad 'Dumb Ways to Die' – featuring animated characters playing out the lyrics of a comedy song about idiotic deaths – quickly became a viral hit and won a series of awards. The campaign, created in conjunction with Melbourne ad agency McCann, has now inspired a series of print ads - and they're just as brilliant. We love how the cuteness of the character designs is balanced by the goriness of their deaths.

31. Publinews Braille Edition

Lady Gaga's illustration is accompanied by the braille caption 'She recovers in a golden wheelchair', which refers to her recent request for one after hip surgery

International journal Publinews recently commissioned ad agency el Taier/Tribu DDB and creative director Jorge Solórzano to create a set of prints to advertise its braille edition. The minimalist ads feature illustrations of Lady Gaga, Hugo Chavez, Kim Jong, Lionel Messi and Pope Francisco among delicate fingerprints. Each is accompanied by a caption relating to recent news about each individual.

32. Wacom Bamboo

Creativity has no boundaries in this new print campaign for Wacom Bamboo

To promote design tablet king Wacom's popular Bamboo products, art director and illustrator Maria Molina developed this set of prints under the tagline 'Creativity has no boundaries'. The series includes three illustrations, each featuring various designer tools with a twist. Bright colours, minimal text and simple graphics work perfectly together in this campaign.

33. Holes

Ad agency Grey New York developed this hard-hitting print campaign for non-profit organisation States United to Prevent Gun Violence

This hard-hitting print ad campaiging against gun violence comes from advertising and marketing agency Grey New York. The campaign, which features three human targets, including a small baby, calls for an update to the USA's antiquated gun laws. The ad, commissioned by non-profit organisation States United to Prevent Gun Violence, features the tagline 'Bullets leave bigger holes than you think'.

34. SMS mistype

Get the message?

We all know the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving. But we really like the simple but clever way ad agency Gitam BBDO points out the obvious facts in this road safety message from car manufacturer Opel. The cool print has a black background, replicating a phone while at the same time making the white box of text all the more prominent. A simple but really effective concept.

35. Pie Chart

The Guardian shows its readers that with its publication they get the full story

UK newspaper The Guardian recently commissioned advertising agency BBH London to create this eye-catching print to show its readers they get the full story. The print is clean and cleverly designed to convey its message. With a purple background, the piece features a simple pie chart, The Guardian logo and a legend with the words 'the whole picture' next to each colour.

36. Dallas Farmers Market

Fresh veg makes up a box of fries in this clever campaign for Dallas Farmers Market

Healthy foods at affordable prices. That's the message behind this clever campaign from ad agency Firehouse for Dallas Farmers Market. Illustrations of fresh fruit and veg cleverly make up a box of fries, hamburger, bag of sweets, and an ice cream in the series of colourful posters.

37. Powers Whiskey

Taylor James and Andy Glass joined forces to create this cool print campaign for Powers Whiskey

Powers is the second biggest whiskey brand in the Republic of Ireland. To promote it, photographer Andy Glass collaborated with creative production studio Taylor James, resulting in a series of gorgeous prints depicting its honey notes, earthy tones and distinctive barley essence. The Taylor James team integrated Glass's landscape photography into the liquid and retouched the four images to create a beautifully photorealistic look for the outdoor print campaign.

38. Schusev State Museum of Architecture

Discover the full story of some of Russia's most famous buildings at the Schusev State Museum of Architecture

This beautiful illustration of St Basil's church in Moscow was created by ad agency Saatchi & Saatchi to promote the information available at the Schusev State Museum of Architecture. The campaign features a series of beautiful photographs of famous Russian landmarks, all of which travel underground and feature the tagline 'Discover the full story'.

39. OndAzul NGO: Sardine

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With a tag line of, "Is it what you expect to find in the sea? Neither do the fishes", there's plenty you can work with. Advertising agency Quê based in Brazil went with this strong idea across three print ads.

The photography is exceptional, with the clashing colours and careful shadow work. We especially fell in love with the font used for the hard-hitting slogan - almost childlike, it evokes the innocence of nature and the danger that the sea faces.

40. Parma Dairy Products: Story

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Dairy products often try to target the parent market as we all know that kids need it to grow big and strong. Sometimes, these ads can seem a little forced and often appear a bit too cutesy for our liking but this effort from El Taier/Tribu DD is brilliant.

Using two instantly recognisible stories for both parent and child, this advert will appeal to both. The simple illustration makes it clear and consise without being too busy. The campaign features cameras and games consoles but it's this sweet story approach that really caught our eye.

41. Baruel Foot Deodrant: Puppet dumped

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At first glance, we didn't quite get this ad. But a little look closer and we can see the attention to detail and brilliant art direction that's been gaining this ad a lot of love. As it's for a foot deodorant, the puppets are actually being controlled by feet instead of hands; a humourus touch to a not-so-sexy brand.

Created by advertising agency Z+ Comunicação in São Paulo, Brazil, the whole series features a number of dumping situations including bosses and landlords. We fell in love with the puppets themselves - click on the image to see the incredible detail.

42. Wrigley's Orbit: Chicken

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Wrigley's have a history of doing some great print advertising work and this campaign is no exception. The colouring and illustration are what initially caught our eye but the silly slogan it ties in with works perfectly. "Don't let lunch see breakfast", just look at the poor chicken's face!

The illustration was crafted by Gabi Kikozashvili, with advertising agency Gitam BBDO leading the campaign. The other ad features a cow mourning its milk but we like the chicken best!

43. MasterCard Canada: Women's Golf

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Tackling women's sport in advertising can be tricky. If you over-feminise, it can mean the wrath of many but if you don't experiement enough, it could mean a lousy campaign. Thankfully, Mastercard have mastered the subject matter with this clever and cute ad for the Women's golf tournament.

Applying their well known 'priceless' slogan, this campaign was created by Canadian advertising agency MacLaren McCann. The photo editing and treatment of the colours are what makes this one.

44. B&B Hotels: Bacon

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This smart ad from creative German agency Publicis is a work of art. Bed and breakfast adverts can often be dull and regurgitated in their concepts but this campaign is a feast for the eyes.

Engaging the reader with quirky manipulation, it takes a while for the art direction to really sink in but once it does, we instantly fell in love. The rest of the series features a cheese sandwich as well as sausages on toast but we picked this purely for the egg yolk pillow!

45. National Geographic Kids Magazine

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National Geographic are arguably the most well-respected nature experts but kids these days may not take notice of them thanks to the ever-expanding array of distractions in games consoles and social networking sites.

Cape Town's advertising agency FoxP2 took matters in their own hands and decided to combine the two - nature and technology. The instantly recognisible blue bird, crafted in 3D software juxtaposed next to the beautiful real life bird makes nature stand out for all the right reasons. Instantly eye-catching!

46. Pilot: Water Restraint

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With a tagline of 'Pilot. Water Resistant,' the possibilities were endless. However, advertising agency GREY from Barcelona decided to take the simple approach; and it certainly paid off with this bright and nostalgic print advertising campaign. The colours are what instantly draw you in, with the undertones of blue miming those of the pen.

The text within this ad can either be nostalgic for the reader or hugely identifiable for parents, which ensures that it speaks to a wide range of consumers. A perfect balance of purpose and execution.

47. ThaiHealth Promotion Foundation: Bike

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We've all seen the television campaigns and disturbing print advertisements for driving awareness. It seems to always feature an image of a recently deceased pedestrian or a horrific crash. But instead of using these traditional tactics, advertising agency BBDO in Bangkok came up with this hugely creative idea.

The 'Don't Drive Sleepy Project' is one that adheres to all drivers and the simple illustrations ensure the seriousness of this print advertising campaign hits home. The tag line 'sleepiness is stronger than you' couldn't be executed more perfectly.

48. Bosch

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Hats off to the effects team behind this brilliant piece of print advertising for Bosch. The wood effect is striking for all the right reasons whilst still being able to ensure it doesn't look overdone and ridiculous. The tagline for the campaign, 'unexpectedly powerful', is expertly showcased; the power of the drill has actually spiralled the wall.

Now, we know most consumers wouldn't like this to actually happen to their wall but the point is put across. The colour blending is also hugely impressive. This print advert is instantly eye-catching, which after-all, is pretty important in this business!

49. Kitchen Aid Blender

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This quaint ad didn't need any frills to get its message across. It's for Kitchen Aid, a high-tech blender which is used for smoothies and such. Of course, bananas and strawberries will get throw into the mix and this campaign simple executes the finished product: a strawana? a banaberry?

Anyway, we love the use of colour; the attention to detail; and the expert shadow effects. The small details are what could make or break a print advertising campaign, and we think it's a winner.

50. Band Aid: Hulk

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The recent release of Avengers Assemble saw Hulk thrust into the spotlight once more. We're certainly not complaining (he's awesome!) and it certainly calls for endless creative executions. This print advertising campaign from Band Aid showcases the ability of using a well-known character to the maximum effect.

There's no text or tag-line; just the clean image of Hulk's hand, along with the product in the bottom left-hand corner. It perfectly executes the product's strength thanks to applying it to the world's strongest character. No words needed!

Next page: 25 more brilliant examples of print ads

51. Perrier

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This campaign for Perrier water made quite a stir on the ad circuit and rightly so, as the art direction is quite simply stunning. You can almost feel the heat from the page, with the bottle of water looking more desirable than ever. There are some really nice touches here; such as the melting records in the background, the drooping disco ball and the second placement of the product on the waiter's tray.

The UK's leading integrated advertising and marketing communications agency Ogilvy were the brains behind this piece of print advertising, with photographer JeanYves Lemoigne taking the reigns for the imagery.

52. Hubba Bubba

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Another great example of print advertising from the folks over at DDB, this time for bubblegum Hubba Bubba. The use of colour is what sparked us to feature it: just look at its depth! The focus on the lips is nicely executed, as they still look realistic (albeit a little freaky too.)

This print ad focuses on the length of the bubblegum (180cm) although the campaign may not really interest children. It seems to be trying to gain an older audience, still in-keeping with their playfulness. For us, it works well.

53. Utopolis Group of Cinemas: Titanic

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This made us choke with laughter as soon as we saw it. It may not be the most beautiful or artistic campaign we've ever seen but it sure does grab your attention, for all the right reasons. Belgian advertising agency Duval Guillaume were behind this quirky take on our cinematic fantasies, which we all know, sadly, never really live up to our expectations.

The series also features a spin on Free Willy that's just as amusing. In this particular ad, inspired by Titanic, we love the small details of the cloudy weather and the less-than-spectacular boat. Reality sucks and that's something everyone can relate to.

54. Lego

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After our recent Lego art feature, we couldn't help but include a print advertising gem for our favourite toy. Our infatuation with Lego starts at a very young age and it's our imaginations that really bring it to life. This campaign brings out the child in us all; showcasing what we actually see when we play with those coloured blocks.

There is no text included within this ad, a decision which we at Creative Bloq woukd completely agree with. There are no words needed to portray the love of the product. This is a case where simple imagery speaks to itself and we think it speaks volumes.

55. Monopoly

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Another well-known and well-loved product, Monopoly, has had endless print advertising campaigns since it first came out in 1923. Admittedly, this ad is aimed at consumers that already know the product well and for those that do, this campaign works extremely well. Obviously playing on the parts of the game, in this case the red hotels, it opens up the reader's imagination.

It was important to ensure the same colour was used throughout the entire page so that the clothes of those in the picture could juxtapose and highlight the intensity of the red. A simple, sweet print ad.

56. Sanzer Hand Gel

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If the first thing you think when you see this ad is along the lines of 'Yuck!' 'Euw!' or 'Gross!' then they're onto a winner. Sanzer is a brand of anti-bacterial hand-gel and it's certainly got its product's importance across with this campaign. The tag line 'What you really touch?' is portrayed perfectly with the filthy fingers and un-kept pay phone.

We love the Photoshop skills used in this great example of print advertising, down to the nitty-gritty in each of the nails. The typography is also used effectively, as the image can pretty much speak for itself. It definitely reminds us to wash our hands!

57. DeliFrance

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The French are known for being a rather quaint and sophisticated bunch, which adheres perfectly to this campaign from DeliFrance. The use of the baguette mixed with the slippers, portrays a sense of comfort, which sums up the tag line perfectly: 'Ready to bake at home.'

The shadow work within this campaign is exquisite and the tiny little cracks in the baguette really convey the rustic and comforting notion of baking at home. Also, this ad is careful not to focus on the female or male market, which ensures it speaks to any baking enthusiast.

58. Print India

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When faced with the tagline 'The identity of young Chennal,' there could be a gush of endless creative ideas. What does 'identity' even mean anyway? We think that this print advertising campaign from Times India sums it up in the most simplistic of ways possible: the fingerprint.

Although simple, it sincerely executes what the product is and what they're about. The fingerprint made up of newspapers is showcasing that metaphorically, their newspaper makes up the identity of the young generation.

This ad speaks volumes to the consumer, as it is connecting something so personal (their identity) to their product. Very clever!

59. Nike

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We could feature almost all of Nike's print advertising campaigns, as over the years they have come up with some of the most innovative and ground-breaking ads we've ever seen. Obviously, we could only feature one and this Nike Liquid campaign really stuck with us.

The effects used to create this stunning visual are clearly where the success lies. Just look at the reflection of light in the pink liquid, or the droplets placed to perfection to ensure the image looks as realistic as possible. This print advert is aimed to showcase the versatilely and dynamic aspect of the sneaker. Nike has got itself another winner.

60. WeightWatchers

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When you think of influential print advertising campaigns, WeightWatchers doesn't really spring to mind. However, after scouring through hundreds of print ads, this is one that really stood out from the bunch. The perfectly made-up lips clashed with the greasy batch of fries makes for quite a stomach-churning effect.

Without the excess number of fries, this would probably be semi-enticing but the simple addition really gets the message across. It isn't telling you to stop this or stop that; it's telling you to 'treat yourself better.' A simple and very personal print ad that works.

61. India's Nilkamal Plastic Chairs

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At Creative Bloq, we don't think there's enough illustrated print advertising campaigns out there. That's why we were delighted to stumble across this gem from Nilkamal plastic chairs. Yes, the elephant standing on one of the products obviously shows off its stability but the illustration makes it much more.

The beautiful colours and drawings were brought to you by brand communications agency Makani. The attention to detail is really what brings this piece together: just look at the fear in the elephant's eye (who, might we point out, is also staring straight at the product.)

62. Faber-Castell

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This awesome print advertising campaign from Faber-Castell not only features this little dog; it also uses the likes of a shark and an aubergine. It's somewhat freakish nature entices the reader enough to want to know what the product is, whilst still oozing a sophisticated approach.

The lighting in this advert really makes it, as well as the reflections from the dogs fur and the colouring pencil itself. The typography is a traditional one, which to the reader can showcase a trusted brand.

63. Feltrinelli Reading

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Another illustrated print advertisement, this one's for Feltrinelli books and showcases their passion for reading. It's often hard to advertise books these days, thanks to the likes of the Kindle but this sweet illustration goes back to the roots of why reading is great.

The juxtaposed colours of the typography with the hands and the book sums up the tag line perfectly: 'Reading means resisting.' Together, you and the book are shutting out the sounds of the world and to most of us, that sounds like a pretty nice idea.

64. M&Ms

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Ah, M&Ms. Probably more well-known for their television campaigns, it was this simple print ad that really caught our eye. Most people nowadays instantly recognise the layout of a keyboard and this campaign is a sweet and playful way to showcase a well-known product.

It's not just for M&Ms in general: this print advertising campaign was to raise awareness of consumers being able to customise their very own M&Ms. The tag line of 'communication just got sweeter' perfectly mirrors the sweetness of the campaign itself.

65. Mebucaine

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You know when you have one of those really sore throats? When it feels like your swallowing glass with every gulp? We've all been there and this campaign from Mebucaine, a sore throat medicine, really brings that feeling to life. The print advertisement campaign features also features a pizza made of glass (ouch!)

The colours of the glass and the structure of the pineapple is stunning with the product placement easily placed. We don't even think the tag line was needed but we still love it!

66. Yum Yum Peanut Butter

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Dramatising Yum Yum Peanut Butter as the smoothest peanut butter in South Africa, this print advertising campaign was led by Cape Town based design agency 34 Degrees. Creative director Richard Phillips took haul of the whole campaign and we love it. Am I Collective were in charge of the illustration side of things; we love their brash and bold approach juxtaposing the teeny, tiny peanut.

The whole campaign is an absolute winner. The 3D work on this particular character is just perfect; take a look at that shadowing!

67. Poly-Brite

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We have to admit, it took us a little while to get this print advertising campaign but as soon as we did, we loved it! Poly-Brite wants to be known for its 'super-absorbant' cloths and this clever imagery showcases that important branding.

Ogilvy & Mather was the agency behind the campaign, which includes a vase and a spilt cup of tea. All three print advertisements complement each other perfectly. Its important within this sector to get the balance right between the purpose of the product and the way it is creatively showcased, and this campaign is a perfect example.

68. Church End Brewery

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Everyone's gone Olympics mad in Britain and many businesses and companies have jumped on the sporting bandwagon to attract new customers. Being bombarded with Union Jacks can soon become creative overkill, but this print advertisement from agency Rees Bradley Hepburn hits the nail right on the head.

The whole campaign manages to capture the essense of Britain's culture in one swift photograph, whilst encorporating the sporting aspect without being too obvious. The image also complements the tag line 'Sporting Gold: A winning blend of British hops.'

69. McDonald's

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McDonald's has had some brilliant campaigns over the years but it was this collection that really put the smile on our faces. The series features three 'kids' (in this case, little monsters) that every parent has had some sort of experience with. This print ad is successful as it immediately relates to the parent with a light-hearted approach.

We couldn't help but fall in love with character design involved. DDB was the impressive team behind the entire campaign, with Carioca in charge of the illustration and photography. A perfect combination!

70. Seitenbacher Musli Cereal

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This ad had us gawping at our screens: just look at that 3D illustration! There's so much attention to detail in this piece, which is something that a lot of print adverts can forget about. The dogs; her hair; the smoke... they're all exquisitly done.

The series sees a collection of various characters but it was this colour scheme that really caught our eye. The deep blue really makes the illustration by Monty Aji Hardito jump out from the page. A job well done by advertising agency JWT Jakarta.

71. Play-Doh

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Every kid loves Play-Doh... heck, everyone loves Play-Doh. This simple print ad works wonders on playing on the imagination; with its old-school style and bold product placement. The sticker effect is one that's been played around with many times over the years in a number of ads and this example proves it still works wonders.

Advertising agency DDB is once again behind this creative campaign. The strong colour scheme and simple approach make it an absolute winner.

72. BIC

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BIC is a well-known brand that's had some new life thrust into it thanks to advertising agency BorghiErh/Lowe. This adorable campaign, which showcases the product's ability and strength, really grabs the reader's eye.

The 3D work here is great, with the campaign also including a broken button. The only qualm we have is that the lighting is a little dark and could do with brightening up a little.

73. OMO Washing Detergent

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This print advertising campaign is for OMO washing detergent, so what better way to showcase its cleaning capabilites than dirt? The entire series, which includes a space scene and dinousaur digging, is made completely from dirt. We found this one most impressive due to the 3D aspects of the tree and the intricate details (including the apple falling from it).

This is absolute stunning work and it's all down to the fantastic art direction of Karen Vermeulen at advertising agency Lowe. A truly innovative approach to advertising washing powder!

74. Anador

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We absolutely love this quirky illustration from Bruna Guerreiro and Robison Mattei.

Most painkiller advertisements feature a disgruntled looking figure who longs for the tablet. So it's great to see this approach from design agency BorghiErh/Lowe.

This series features a number of situations in various shades of pastels that complement each other very well indeed. If we saw this advert whilst flicking through our favourite magazine, we'd definitely be giving it a second look.

75. Abbott, Ensure Active M2

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Now this is a print ad you really have to look at. The hilarious series, which features a footballer and a tourist, had us laughing in seconds. We also loved the distinctive character design: you're not going to see creations like that everyday!

The simple colour scheme allows the concept to shine whilst the subtle product placement in the bottom left-hand corner is a nice touch to keep things understated. The fantastic team at JWT were once again on hand to give their creative touch to a stunning print advertising campaign.

Next page: 25 more brilliant examples of print ads

76. McDonald's

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Illustrator Helen Musselwhite worked with legendary advertising agency Leo Burnett to create this awe-inspiring paper illustration. The design is based around McDonald's upcoming collaboration with DK Books in conjunction with their Happy Meals.

77. Bioenergy Nutrition

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Italian heath supplements company Bioenergy Nutrition wanted to promote the benefits of low levels of cholesterol and triglyceri. Milanese advertising agency Alch1m1a ADV created this macabre series of print ads casting butter as the baddie in an instantly recognisable way - sculpting three well known horror icons out of the fatty spread.

78. Royal Legion

Image © Taylor James. Click the image to see the full size ad

Following the First World War, the poppy became a symbol of the war dead in Britain and Commonwealth countries - because the bright red flower was one of the only plants to grow on some of the worst battlefields. The Royal British Legion adopted it in 1921 to help it raise funds for war veterans, and the tradition of wearing one on the 11th November (the anniversary of the end of the war) began.

The buying and wearing of poppies remains central to British life and culture, but last year, The Legion felt the campaign needed an extra push. So it created this 2012 Poppy Appeal advertising campaign.

To reinforce the message that everyone in UK society should be wearing a poppy, each ad featured a cut-out poppy revealing several different backdrops from around the capital. The campaign was the work of Simone Micheli (art director) and Rob DeCleyn (copywriter) of The Gate (see their other work here) while the CGI work came courtesy of Taylor James.

79. Brucciani: Wi-Fi

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The message behind this print ad might not be immediately obvious, but as soon as we got it we just had to share it with you. The subtle shading and use of colour is what makes this ad pop - just look at the Wi-Fi signal in the coffee cup!

It was created by UK advertising agency Big Communications, with executive creative director Dylan Bogg and creative director Billy Mawhinney. Art direction was taken care of by Ed Bentinck and designers Duncan Bancroft and Simon Dilks.

80. Master Trap: Casino

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This clever little ad has been getting a lot of love and we can see why. It's simple, effective, and funny and those are three things that make print advertising work. With the tag line, "fatal attraction", it works perfectly with the casino and Master Trap affiliation.

Advertising Agency Ogilvy & Mather, based in Bangkok, Thailand took care of the campaign and we think they've done a great job. Creative directors Wisit Lumsiricharoenchoke and Nopadol Srikieatikajohn have already collaborated on a number of successful ads and we think this one for Master Trap is certainly one of their best.

81. Jeep - Earth Day

The team at ad agency Draftfcb ask a good question...

To conincide with Earth Day this week, ad agency Draftfcb in Tel-Aviv, Israel created this simple but effective poster design for Jeep. Using a symbolic green background, simple graphics display a Jeep falling off the side of the Earth, with the poignant tagline 'If there is no planet, where will you drive?' underneath. Good question.

82. Champion Dog

The Champion Dog campaign encouraged people to adopt a dog in need at Christmas

This adorable campaign by Lowe Porta for Champion Dogs really pulls at the heart strings. Wanting to encourage people to adopt (rather than buy) a dog at Christmas, the Chilean-based ad agency developed a series of touching scenes featuring super-cute, present-shaped puppies.

83. Jim Rickey

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Christian Aslund drew on the spirit of platform games such as Mario for this print advertising campaign for sneaker brand Jim Rickey.

The photographer shot the models in awkward horizontal positions on the streets of Hong Kong, using a telelens to make the images appear flat and the scenes vertical.

Aslund served as both creative director and photographer on the project, dubbed 'Honkey Kong', alongside Jan Andreen, Loa Bie and Sofia Cederstrom.

84. Aizone

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Sagmeister & Walsh have been creating campaigns for Beirut luxury department store Aizone since 2010, with a focus on only black and white executions. This time, they decided to mix things up and add a splash of colour.

Whilst Sagmeister & Walsh took care of the art direction, Henry Hargreaves worked as the photographer on the project. If you'd like to see more imagery from the campaign, you can visit the Sagmeister & Walsh official site.

85. Quebec Automobile Insurance Society

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Driving safety is a daunting task for any creative agency - it has to provoke a strong and lasting impression with an important message whilst still being creatively sound. This campaign from Lg2, an agency based in Canada does all these things and more.

Although a somewhat vintage idea, the seatbelt is used to showcase the important message and incourage young drivers to ensure their own safety. Creative direction and copywriting was overseen by Luc Du Sault and the campaign features a further two ads.

86. The Guardian US

This clever campaign shows both sides of each argument

Using illustrations by Noma Bar, these print ads for the American launch of British newspaper The Guardian depict both sides of core political debates in the US, such as internet privacy, gun control, women in the military and the use of condoms in the adult film industry.

Appearing at key locations throughout the country as outdoor ads and mobile billboards, each illustration represents one opinion of the issue. When the poster is flipped, it effortlessly illustrates the opposite view.

87. Exito

Don't let your water to taste like the contents of your fridge

There's nothing quite like a glass of fresh, ice-cold water straight from the fridge. Aware of this, Latin American supermarket Exito recently developed a special bottle with seven layers, designed to preserve the taste of the H2O inside.

In a print campaign to promote the new product, advertising agency Sancho BBDO developed this clever series of ads, featuring some of the more pungent things one might keep in the fridge, including salmon and green onions, being poured into glass containers.

88. Academia do rock classics

Rock classes now for kids in this adorable print campaign

These adorable print ads created by Brazilian based agency Yeah! aim to portray "rock classes now also for kids." Featuring The Beatles as well as a host of other bands, this simple print ad approach is colourfully eye-catching as well as appealing to kids and grown-ups alike. We especially love the Ozzy Osbourne tribute.

89. Sharpie

We love the comic book execution of this print ad

Pen giant Sharpie has produced some marvellous print ads over the years and kept up with design trends galore. Brazilian based agency Draftfcb creates these clever print ads with the tagline 'One story. Two Points'. In the ad above, the Sharpie is depicting the two sides of the sucess of Facebook. We love the comic book execution. Which side will you believe?

90. CSI

Using evidence as a maze, this print ad promotes the popular TV show CSI

Fans of the hugely successful TV show CSI will love these print ads promoting it. With the slogan 'let the clues show you the way', this design by Publicis uses evidencial marks as mazes to a corpse, brilliantly summing up the investigative show's appeal.

91. The Potting Shed

Print ads don't have to be technically sophisticated - this brilliant campaign uses just two lengths of thread and some pins

Adverts for wealth management companies often show dull stock images of businessmen standing about. But these print ads for Jersey-based firm Affinity Wealth Management are a world apart.

Created by design agency The Potting Shed, each of these beautiful and elegant images was designed by the group and then created by junior designer Sam Falla using just two lengths of thread and some pins. The beauty of the concept lies in its simplicity particularly in its choice of two colours and a set of simple images.

92. FedEx: USA - Brazil

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FedEx have had plenty of campaigns in the past but this simple execution of its services really does the job. The use of colour used for the U.S.A. and Brazil against the wall colour ensure this print advert looks realistic yet artistic. The campaign also ensures that the FedEx package is the centre of attention without being too bolshy.

This series also features China - Australia and London - Spain but the contrasting colours of the countries with the walls seem to let them down; unlike this highly original example of print advertising. The 'express' is also boldly executed thanks to the quick passing of the package.

93. Zoo Safari

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This print advertising truly lives up to its tagline: 'Blend In.' The photography, along with Photoshop expertise and the gorgeous colours, make the campaign cute yet sophisticated. DDB is known for its innovative take on products and campaigns such as this Chuppa Chups advertisment and its breast cancer awareness series.

The Zoo Safari series also features a tiger and a gorilla (which are both equally humorous) collating the three print ads as one of the most creative campaigns we've had the pleasure of placing our eyes upon.

94. Electro Recycling Robot

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Look! A robot poos electronic stuff! Ha ha! But really, this print advertising campaign from Euro RSCG is a tongue-in-cheek execution of quite a serious issue (electronic recycling). You may be wondering how an excreting robot is relevant but it all becomes clear with the tag line, 'potty train your e-waste'.

The artistic direction is simple yet effective. The font at the bottom of this print ad is also big enough to entice the reader's attention and ensure the message has firmly been executed.

95. Pizza & Love: Fight for the Amazonas

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Most companies have been jumping on the green bandwagon for some time now (and so they should!). But one that is probably least likely to do so is a pizza restaurant/take-away. This campaign was designed to raise awareness of its eco-friendly packaging (100 per cent recycled pizza boxes) and its use of only organic products.

The execution is brilliantly done, from the broccoli forest to the greasy planet in the background. Also notice the peace logo in the bottom left hand corner: it's another pizza! Little touches such as these is what makes print advertising so innovative.

96. Beck's: Art in Progress

Vault49 bring their illustrative skills to the table once again

British born, New York-based design studio Vault49 brought its inimitable style to this illustration-led campaign for Beck's beer. Reflecting a growing trend for production-line-style visuals that reflect the creation process - also noticeable in Nike's Reuse-a-Shoe campaign - the ad explores the different elements that go into a bottle of Beck's, from an imaginative, conceptual viewpoint rather than a literal representation of the production process.

97. Pantone: Rain Edition

Rainwater is given a splash of colour in this print ad

A collaborative effort between Italian creatives Giuliano Lo Re and Matteo Gallinelli, this inspiring campaign for Pantone puts colour front and centre, as you'd expect for the kings of the special ink. But rather than play the well-worn rainbow card, the duo opted to explore the relationship between colour and water - particularly rainwater.

98. Marmite: Don't Forget It

You won't forget Marmite in a hurry with this series of print ads

Adam&EveDDB have gone one step further with the 'Love it or hate it' theme in this latest print and TV campaign for Marmite, satirising animal cruelty appeals by "raising awareness" of woefully neglected Marmite jars across Britain. You can watch the accompanying TV commercial here.

99. Scribe pencils

From extinct to mythical creatures, anything is possible with Scribe pencils

The illustrations in this beautifully executed campaign for Scribe pencils do all the talking. The idea being to 'Bring your ideas to reality', artist Hernan Marin created three eye-catching drawings of a dinosaur, mermaid and unicorn, which almost have a lifelike, 3D quality to them. Conceived and executed by Bogota-based ad agency Melborp, the campaign highlights the endless creative possibilities with these pencils.

100. French Ministry of Health

Ice cream, anyone?

This ad campaign for the French Ministry of Health highlights the growing the growing issue of obesity in children. An original concept, the illustration, art directed and copy written by David Lesage, features an image of an ice cream, topped with a big belly. The copy reads "L'obesite commence des le plus jeune age," meaning "obesity starts at a young age."

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