Beloved actress and model Brooke Shields recently sat down to reflect on a significant moment in her career – her controversial Calvin Klein advertisement from the 1980s. This campaign, which featured the young Brooke at the age of 15, propelled her into the spotlight while also igniting a firestorm of controversy.
The provocative nature of the advertisement caused such a stir that it was even banned in some countries. Looking back, Brooke openly admits that she didn’t fully comprehend the explicit connotations 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 explored the issue of the media oversexualizing young actors and models, drawing from her own experience as a model for Calvin Klein. The aftermath of this controversial campaign thrust her into a world filled with unexpected interviews, one of which had a lasting impact – her sit-down conversation with journalist Barbara Walters.
Reflecting on this particular interview, Brooke describes it as “practically criminal.” She struggled with the inappropriate questions she was asked and felt genuinely perplexed and upset by them. Barbara probed into personal matters such as her measurements and even questioned whether she had any secrets hidden from her own mother. It is important to remember that Brooke was merely 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. The paparazzi subjected her and her mother to yelling and harassment, leaving Brooke feeling utterly bewildered by the absurdity of it all. It is emphasized that she never interpreted the slogan as having any sexual connotations, and she highlights 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 ended up going viral and unintentionally propelled the brand to new heights. The attention may have been negative, but it undeniably generated interest. As a result, Calvin Klein became synonymous with boundary-pushing and trend-setting. Their advertising strategies, although often criticized for being both inappropriate and seductive, have become iconic in the fashion industry.
Brooke Shields remains acutely aware of Calvin Klein’s infamous reputation. The brand’s current advertising efforts continue to court controversy, often gaining attention and notoriety. Despite the criticism and condemnation they have faced over the years, Calvin Klein remains a brand unafraid to take risks.
If you’re curious to catch a glimpse of the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement that thrust Brooke Shields into the limelight, check out the video below. However, please note that the video may contain content that some viewers may find inappropriate.
