Clinique: A Brand Sizzle That Spans Decades
Few brandsMore than a logo—brand is the essence of a company, shaping identity, reputation, and customer perception. in the beauty industry boast the legacy of Clinique. Established in 1968, this visionaryAhead of the curve—visionaries are bold thinkers who see what’s next and shape the future of industries and ideas. brand was born from a groundbreaking article in Vogue magazine that posed a simple yet revolutionary question: Can great skin be created? Written by Carol Phillips with dermatological insights from Norman Orentreich, the article caught the attention of Evelyn Lauder. What followed was an industry-defining collaboration that birthed a company focused on allergy-tested, dermatologist-driven skin care—a first in the beauty world.
Over five decades later, Clinique continues to stand tall as a beacon of trust, innovationThe spark that starts it all—creativity is the fearless pursuit of new ideas, powerful stories, and unforgettable brand moments., and inclusivity in skincare. It’s a name that transcends generations, resonating with men and women alike who value not just beauty, but the science behind it. From its iconic white lab coats to its clean, clinical ethos, Clinique has carved a niche that celebrates both individuality and universal care.
Clinique’s Beyond Perfecting foundation and concealer range showcases diversity and inclusivity in skincare.
A Visual Symphony of Clinique’s Journey
When we at RIOT were tasked with creating a brand sizzle for Clinique, we knew we had to honor its rich history while embracing its bold visionThe spark that starts it all—a concept is the big idea that shapes campaigns, guiding everything from visuals to messaging. for the future. The resulting film is more than just a highlight reel; it’s a love letter to a brand that redefined what beauty could mean.
Opening with Clinique’s earliest campaigns—evocative, monochromatic imagery that felt more science than sales—we chart the brand’s evolution through decades of beauty innovation. From its iconic “3-Step Skin Care System” to modern campaignsStrategy meets storytelling—campaigns bring big ideas to life, driving awareness, engagement, and conversions through powerful, multi-channel messaging. that champion diversity, authenticity, and sustainability, every frame reflects Clinique’s commitment to progress without compromising its roots.
A conceptual sketch showcasing Clinique’s innovation in store designFunction meets form—design shapes how brands look, feel, and connect through everything from logos to layouts. and customerThe reason we do what we do—the client is the partner, the collaborator, and the audience we’re here to impress and grow with. experience.
Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Creativity
Set to a dynamic score, the sizzle reel takes viewersThe heartbeat of every campaign—understanding and engaging the right audience is the key to crafting messages that resonate and drive action. on a journey that is both educational and emotional. Each sequence celebrates Clinique’s philosophy: beauty is not one-size-fits-all. Through vibrant visuals, bold typographyLetters with personality—typography is the art of styling type to communicate tone, emotion, and brand identity., and carefully curated footage, the film encapsulates everything Clinique stands for—innovation, trust, and an unwavering dedication to skin health.
For us at RIOT, this project was a chance to combine storytellingEmotion meets impact—storytelling is the heartbeat of branding, using narrative to connect with audiences and drive action. with artistry, crafting a visual narrative that speaks to Clinique’s past, present, and future. It’s a celebration of a brand that dares to innovate and inspires all of us to dream bigger.
Above, you’ll find the final film—an immersive crash course into the world of Clinique that we are incredibly proud to have created. Let this sizzle reel inspire you as much as it inspired us, and here’s to pushing the boundaries of creativity further with every project we take on.
