I was browsing through a flyer from a clothing store yesterday and a large banner at the top of an inside page caught my eye.
$10 Off Men's Lined Bottoms
Was this reputable shop in the habit of caning men for a fee? Were they offering a reduced rate for this week only? My mind considered the possibilities, but a closer look at the picture under the caption brought me back to reality.
The lined bottoms were, in fact, denim jeans with a flannel lining - a necessity for Canadian winters.
On another page was a similar advertisement that also made me smile.
Women's Striped Bottoms
Sadly, it had nothing to do with naughty young ladies being caned in the changing rooms at the back of the store. It was a reference to the pattern on the fabric.
I wonder how many other readers were fooled, at least for a moment or two, by the magic of advertising.