Shirley Polykoff
1974 Creative Hall of Fame Inductee
Advertising, Design, Education
Shirley Polykoff coined the famous Clairol slogan "Does she or doesn't she?" in 1955, sparking controversy and eventually becoming a classic campaign. Despite initial resistance, she secured female staff support at Life magazine, leading to the slogan's use for 15 years and influencing hair coloring vernacular.
Career
“Does she or doesn’t she?” – the famous Clairol question. Coined in 1955 by Shirley Polykoff, then just beginning her 18-year stint at Foote Cone & Belding, this controversial line was the start of many Polykoff phrases that became part of the vernacular of hair coloring. The original double entendre caused much concern first within the agency, and then, once reluctantly approved, was refused by Life magazine’s all-male managers. Polykoff convinced them they should poll the magazine’s female staff. She received her endorsement and the campaign became a classic; the slogan was used for the next fifteen years.
