In the early 1980s, Calvin Klein ads featuring the stunning Brooke Shields gained popularity for their provocative and daring nature. At the time, Shields was just a young and handsome actor and model. One of the most memorable lines from these ads was Shields’ statement, “There’s nothing between me and my Calvin,” which left a lasting impression.
Brooke Shields quickly rose to fame and became a symbol of courage, unafraid to challenge the traditional norms and expectations of women’s fashion. However, it was her appearance in a particularly controversial Calvin Klein ad at the age of 15 that caused a stir and eventually led to its banning in some countries. The ad was deemed sexually provocative, sparking debates over its appropriateness and impact.
For years, Shields carried the weight of that encounter, especially when she sat down for an interview with Barbara Walters, whom she now describes as a “practical murderer.” During the interview, Brooke candidly shared her own experience to shed light on the media’s tendency to hypersexualize young actors and models, using her modeling work with Calvin Klein as a prime example of this exploitation.
Decades later, Brooke Shields remains passionate about these issues and is determined to keep the conversation open for future generations. In a surprising turn of events, during an interview with Barbara Walters, the frustrated reporter asked inappropriate questions about Brooke’s height and age, unaware that she was hiding a secret from her mother. This incident enraged Brooke, as she felt it went beyond responsible journalism and could be considered a criminal act.
Reflecting on her past, Shields recognizes the inappropriate nature of journalists asking intrusive questions that made her uncomfortable as a 15-year-old. In a rebellious move, she candidly expressed her frustration after her statements caused a scandal upon her return home in October 2021. Shields recalls being surprised by the intense criticism and scrutiny she faced, with paparazzi hounding her and her mother relentlessly. At the time, she didn’t realize the sexual implications of her statement, nor did she fully grasp the hidden meaning of modesty.
Despite the backlash, Brooke Shields and her mother managed to turn the controversy surrounding the 1980 Calvin Klein ad into a successful and popular campaign. In fact, their own line of underwear became even more popular than Calvin Klein pants, despite the criticism they received as a mother-daughter team.
Brooke explains how Calvin Klein effectively pushed the boundaries with their bold advertisements and notes that the controversy only served to increase interest in the brand. The company itself has refrained from commenting on the ad and its aftermath. However, their willingness to be daring and push the envelope has played a significant role in their enduring relevancy in the fashion world. Calvin Klein’s bold ad campaigns starring Brooke Shields have garnered both criticism and praise, but ultimately, it is their ability to captivate and engage consumers that sets them apart.
