Some commercials come and go, but a select few become legendary. Cindy Crawford’s 1992 Pepsi commercial is one of those rare ads that left an unforgettable mark on pop culture. With just 30 seconds of screen time, it turned a simple soft drink commercial into an iconic fashion moment, solidified Crawford’s supermodel status, and became a defining visual of the 1990s.
Pepsi wanted an ad that felt young, fresh, and effortlessly cool—and they got exactly that when they enlisted Cindy Crawford, one of the biggest supermodels in the world at the time. Directed by Joe Pytka, the commercial was filmed at a deserted gas station, creating an atmosphere that felt both nostalgic and cinematic.
The ad features Crawford stepping out of a sleek red Lamborghini, wearing a simple yet striking white tank top and denim shorts. She walks to a vintage Pepsi vending machine, buys a can, and takes a slow, satisfying sip—while two young boys stare, mesmerized. The twist? The boys are actually admiring the new Pepsi can design, not Crawford herself.
This clever approach made the commercial fun, memorable, and universally appealing, helping Pepsi reinforce its brand in a way that resonated across generations.
The 1992 commercial was more than just an ad—it became a symbol of the era. Several factors contributed to its lasting impact:
- Effortless Simplicity – The commercial had no flashy effects or dialogue, making it an easy-to-digest and visually stunning piece of advertising.
- Timeless Style – Cindy Crawford’s white tank top and denim shorts became one of the most replicated looks of the ‘90s.
- Branding Brilliance – The ad wasn’t just selling a product—it was selling a lifestyle, associating Pepsi with youth, beauty, and effortless coolness.
Due to its widespread popularity, the commercial has been revived multiple times:
- Super Bowl 2002 – A remastered version of the ad was released for its 10th anniversary.
- 2018 Super Bowl Pepsi Tribute – Crawford reprised her role in a modernized remake, proving that some moments never lose their magic.
Cindy Crawford’s Pepsi commercial remains one of the most iconic ads ever created. Even decades later, it continues to be referenced in fashion, pop culture, and advertising, showing the power of a well-crafted, visually striking moment.
