FKA Twigs recently found herself at the center of controversy when her Calvin Klein ad was banned in the UK for being deemed “irresponsible and likely to cause serious offense.” The Advertising Standards Authority claimed that the image, which featured the singer wearing nothing but a denim shirt, “presented her as a stereotypical sexual object.” However, FKA Twigs took to Instagram to challenge this characterization and denounce the apparent double standards in the decision.
In her Instagram post, FKA Twigs refuted the label of being a “stereotypical sexual object” and instead saw herself as a “beautiful strong woman of colour” who has overcome immense pain. She called attention to the sexism and racism inherent in the ASA’s judgment by highlighting the different treatment given to Jeremy Allen White’s ad, which featured him wearing nothing but boxers. FKA Twigs criticized the double standards in the industry and expressed her pride in her physicality and the art she creates, aligning herself with women who have broken down barriers of empowerment and sensuality.
FKA Twigs’ response garnered support from fans who condemned the hypocrisy of the ASA’s decision. Many fans questioned the societal attitudes towards women, emphasizing that the problem lies not in how much skin a woman shows but in the depraved thoughts and actions of some men. They also pointed out the double standard in the media’s coverage, highlighting how Jeremy Allen White’s campaign was celebrated while FKA Twigs’ ad was removed. The backlash against the ASA’s decision demonstrates a growing frustration with the objectification of women in advertising.
The ASA defended its decision to ban FKA Twigs’ ad by claiming that it used nudity and focused on her physical features rather than the clothing being advertised, thus presenting her as a stereotypical sexual object. The composition of the image was said to prioritize the model’s body over the clothing. However, some critics argue that this reasoning is inconsistent, given that Kendall Jenner’s topless ad from August 2023 was deemed acceptable. Despite Jenner being nearly naked in the ad, it was not seen as portraying her as a sexual object. This discrepancy raises questions about the ASA’s criteria and the consistency with which it applies them.
Calvin Klein, the brand behind the controversial ad, came to the defense of both FKA Twigs and Kendall Jenner. The company argued that the images were not vulgar but rather featured confident and empowered women who chose to identify with the brand. Calvin Klein maintained that the ads carried a progressive and enlightened message. By standing behind the women in their campaign, Calvin Klein rejected the notion that their ads were intended to objectify or exploit the models.
The banning of FKA Twigs’ Calvin Klein ad and the subsequent controversy surrounding it have highlighted the ongoing debates about sexism and double standards in the advertising industry. FKA Twigs’ response to the ASA’s decision and the support she received from fans signify a growing demand for change. The inconsistent application of standards by the ASA raises questions about how society perceives and treats women in the public eye. Moving forward, it is essential for the industry to reassess its portrayal of women and ensure fair and equitable treatment for all.