Controversial Kickstarter Crowdfunding Campaign Challenges Censors with Racy Launch Video
- Details
- Category: Business/Financial News
- Published on Friday, 14 June 2013 12:21
New York -- New York City-based Vittorio J sparked a fashion firestorm today, publicly launching a Kickstarter campaign with a video that imagines Marilyn Monroe and John F. Kennedy in a provocative bedroom scene.
Part of a distinctly original crowdfunding project, the 90-second clip depicts the blonde bombshell tied to a bed with the designer's ultra-premium neckties. Almost certain to test Hollywood censors, the segment could easily pass for a '50 Shades of Grey' film trailer -- but is actually a high-impact instructional video focused on men's fashion.
The 30-day fundraising effort is intended to educate the public about choosing and tying the proper knot, while generating broad exposure for Vittorio J's exclusive line of premium neckties. The eclectic designer has enjoyed brand popularity and commercial success among its celebrity clientele that includes A-List athletes, actors, and musicians, renowned entrepreneurs, VIP journalists, U.S. Presidents, and even the future King of England.
The one-of-a-kind initiative pays tribute to Marilyn Monroe's unforgettable style, enduring appeal and entrepreneurial spirit, themes central to Vittorio J's designs. In tandem with the star's 87th birthday, Kickstarter gave its nod to post the eye-popping video and other content -- but not before requiring Vittorio J to make key edits and resubmit the material for formal approval.
The project's feature video depicts the Marilyn doppelganger suggestively tied to a bed by her Presidential suitor, who showcases the designer's premium ties and profiles popular necktie knots. The promotional effort will run on Kickstarter through July 12th and offers backers an array of unique rewards, including the limited edition ties chosen by the company's high-profile clients. Among items certain to piqué interest among project backers are ties worn by England's Prince William, President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton, plus a small number of ultra-scarce, highly-coveted presidential cufflinks.
"Marilyn Monroe and John F. Kennedy proved that fashion offers a platform for communication, expression and influence that can't be accessed any other way," said Vittorio J co-founder, Jesse Chao. "Vittorio J's Kickstarter campaign previews our ultra-distinct premium ties, profiles the four classic necktie knots, and raises the bar for quality craftsmanship and stylistic expression. Our ties are consistently chosen by the most visible and influential people on the planet, and this campaign makes our collection available worldwide -- to a limited number who act quickly."
Those interested can become backers of the Kickstarter campaign for as little as $1 and enjoy a range of one-of-a-kind rewards. Perks, including the rare Presidential ties and cufflinks, are limited in quantity and available on a first come, first served basis. The controversial video can be viewed through July 12th on the Kickstarter website, via a direct link at www.tyingmarilyn.com, and at Vittorio J's company website.
Vittorio J's Exclusives collection features limited edition neckties that deliver the very best of Old World tailoring and contemporary design. Using the highest grade silks, artisanal masters in Naples cut, fold and sew each tie by hand, affording Vittorio J clients the most authentic, ultra-premium Italian craftsmanship available.
