Calvin Klein’s advertising history has been provocative and iconic. For decades the brand has courted controversy. Their images have been accused of inspiring the ‘90s era of ‘heroin chic’, glamorising child pornography, or objectifying people (namely women). But in 2019, they underwent a serious rebrand—when they featured plus-size models like Chika and Beth Ditto. In 2023, they featured Bappie Kortram, a transgender man in one of their bras.
Generally, Calvin Klein campaigns have become more inclusive and positive. However, in this week’s latest saga, I believe the brand is absolutely on the right side of history. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), as they often do, have taken the crown as backwards-baddies of the day!
