Fashion brand poster featuring FKA twigs deemed offensive and objectifying, banned for perpetuating stereotypical sexualization of women

A Calvin Klein poster featuring British musician FKA twigs has been banned after complaints were lodged with the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) last year. The image, depicting the singer in a denim shirt drawn halfway around her body, revealing part of her buttocks and breast, carried the text "Calvins or nothing." Two complainants argued that the images were overly sexualized, offensive and irresponsibly objectified women.


Calvin Klein defended the advertisement, stating that it aligned with their longstanding UK campaign style and that FKA twigs, described as a 'confident and empowered woman had collaborated on and approved the image before publication.'

The ASA concluded that the poster's composition drew focus to the model's body rather than the advertised clothing, presenting FKA twigs as a stereotypical sexual object. Consequently, the ad was deemed irresponsible and likely to cause serious offense.


Neither Calvin Klein nor FKA twigs has commented on the ban as of now. This controversy follows Jeremy Allen White's recent Calvin Klein ad campaign, where the actor showcased his toned physique, signaling a shift in the brand's promotional approach.