Brooke Shields, the beloved actress and model, recently reminisced about 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 unforgettable campaign, propelling her into the spotlight while also igniting a firestorm of controversy.
The advertisement, renowned for its provocative content, caused such a stir that it was banned in certain countries. Looking back, Brooke admits that she didn’t fully grasp the suggestive nature of her line in the commercial at the time. Innocently, she 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 an overly sexualized manner. She used her own experience as a Calvin Klein model to support this claim. The aftermath of the controversial advertisement thrust her into a world of unexpected interviews, including one that left a lasting impact – her sit-down conversation with journalist Barbara Walters.
Reflecting on that particular interview, Brooke describes it as “practically criminal.” She felt perplexed and upset by the inappropriate questions she was asked. Barbara delved into personal matters such as her dimensions 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, leaving her utterly bewildered by the absurdity of it all. She emphasizes that she never interpreted the slogan as having any sexual connotations, highlighting her own innocence and gullibility. “I believed people assumed I was much more intelligent than I actually was,” she admits. “I was a virgin at the time and remained so forever.”
Despite the controversy and backlash, the Calvin Klein campaign ironically went viral, unintentionally propelling the brand to new heights. The attention may have been negative, but it undoubtedly generated interest. Consequently, 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 continue to court controversy, garnering attention and notoriety. Despite the criticism and condemnation they have faced over the years, Calvin Klein is a brand unafraid to take risks.
If you want to catch a glimpse of the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement that brought Brooke Shields into the limelight, watch the video below. Please note that the video may depict content that some viewers may find inappropriate.
