Brooke Shields, the beloved actress and model, recently took a moment to look back on a significant moment in her career – her controversial Calvin Klein advertisement from the 1980s. At the young age of 15, Brooke became the face of this memorable campaign, thrusting her into the spotlight and igniting a firestorm of controversy.
The advertisement, known for its provocative content, caused such a stir that it was even banned in some countries. Looking back, Brooke admits that she didn’t fully understand the suggestive nature of her line in the commercial at the time. Naively, she innocently delivered the now-iconic slogan, “Want to know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing.”
In a recent interview on the Armchair Expert podcast, Brooke discussed how the media often portrays young actors and models in a overly sexualized manner. She cited her own experience as a model for Calvin Klein as evidence of this. The aftermath of the controversial advertisement thrust her into a world of unexpected interviews, including one that had a lasting impact – her sit-down conversation with journalist Barbara Walters.
Reflecting on that particular interview, Brooke describes it as “practically criminal.” She felt bewildered and upset by the inappropriate questions she was asked. Barbara delved into personal matters like her physical measurements and even probed into whether she had any secrets hidden from her own mother. It’s crucial to remember that Brooke was only fifteen years old at the time.
In a recent interview with Vogue, Brooke further opened up about the negative feedback she received from the campaign. She recalls paparazzi yelling at her and her mother, feeling utterly confused by the whole situation. She emphasizes that she never interpreted the slogan as having any sexual connotations, underscoring her own innocence and gullibility. “I believed it was assumed that I was much more intelligent than I actually was,” she admits. “I was a virgin at the time and remained so forever.”
Ironically, despite the controversy and backlash, the Calvin Klein campaign ultimately went viral, inadvertently propelling the brand to new heights. The attention may have been negative, but it certainly generated interest. As a result, the company became synonymous with pushing boundaries and setting trends. Their advertising strategies, often criticized for being both inappropriate and seductive, have become iconic in the fashion industry.
Brooke Shields remains well aware of Calvin Klein’s infamous reputation. The brand’s current advertising efforts still court controversy, gaining attention and notoriety. Despite the criticism and condemnation they have faced over the years, Calvin Klein is a brand that isn’t afraid to take risks.
If you are curious about the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement that brought Brooke Shields into the limelight, you can watch the video below. It’s important to note that the video may contain content that some viewers may find inappropriate. Nevertheless, it unquestionably played a crucial role in shaping both Brooke’s career and the brand’s legacy.
