The controversial Calvin Klein ad featuring FKA Twigs has been deemed “irresponsible and likely to cause serious offense” by the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). The image, which showed Twigs wearing nothing but a shirt draped over her bare body, received complaints from two individuals who found it inappropriate. In response, the ASA stated that the ad should be pulled because it focused excessively on Twigs’ physical features rather than the clothing being advertised, portraying her as a stereotypical sexual object.
It is worth noting that this particular ad was released in April 2023, raising questions about why the backlash is happening now. The ASA’s decision to ban the ad suggests that it is no longer acceptable, despite being in circulation for several months. While the reasons behind this sudden criticism remain unclear, it highlights the power dynamics at play in regulating advertisements and the importance of reviewing content from various perspectives.
Interestingly, criticism has also been leveled at Kendall Jenner’s topless Calvin Klein ad, although regulators ultimately ruled in her favor. The ASA determined that the portrayal of Jenner did not objectify her as a sexual object and was consistent with other promotional content of a similar nature. This illustrates the subjectivity involved in scrutinizing and regulating advertisements, as what one regulator deems acceptable may differ from another’s perspective.
As of now, FKA Twigs has not publicly addressed the ASA’s decision or the criticism surrounding her Calvin Klein ad. However, her frequent sharing of risqué photos on social media suggests that she may not necessarily agree with the regulator’s assessment. In November 2023, Twigs even posted a video on her Instagram, featuring herself posing with a perfume bottle while partially unclothed. This discrepancy between her personal expressions and the ASA’s judgement raises questions about artistic freedom, self-expression, and societal standards of acceptability.
Calvin Klein’s Defense
Calvin Klein, the brand behind the controversial ad, has come to Twigs’ defense, asserting that the images were not vulgar and featured two confident and empowered women who chose to identify with the brand. According to the company, the ad’s message was progressive and enlightened. However, their support does not seem to have affected the ASA’s decision to ban the ad.
Interestingly, the backlash against FKA Twigs’ ad comes in the wake of a viral Calvin Klein ad featuring actor Jeremy Allen White. The black-and-white photos and videos showcased White’s muscular physique while he wore only skin-tight underwear. It remains to be seen whether this ad will also face scrutiny and whether the ASA’s decision will set a precedent for future cases involving objectification and self-expression in advertising.
The controversy surrounding FKA Twigs’ Calvin Klein ad highlights the complex nature of regulating advertisements in terms of objectification and societal standards. While the ASA deemed the ad irresponsible and offensive, the subjective nature of such decisions becomes evident when comparing it to Kendall Jenner’s ad, which was deemed acceptable. FKA Twigs’ personal expressions on social media further raise questions about artistic freedom and societal expectations. Ultimately, this controversy provokes a deeper conversation about the fine line between self-expression and objectification in advertising.