I wouldn't go so far as to call it commercial brainwashing, as that carries a pretty hefty negative connotation, but there definitely is intent behind advertisements to affect your purchasing patterns. Lighting, models, music, wording, situations -- everything is carefully crafted with the hope that the combined effect will appeal to your subconscious desire. Those "tips and tricks" fall under consumer psychology, which is the study of consumer purchasing patterns and decision processes.
A great example is the Old Spice commercial:
At first glance, you might find it odd that this ad for men's deodorant is being targeted to a female audience. When you realize just what exactly P&G has done by using that audience though, you'll see the genius in this marketing, and just how much of consumer psychology is involved when it comes to advertising.
I don't think we should be worried. So long as you're keeping in mind whether or not a purchase is going to give you utility, you'll be fine.