The Ban on FKA Twigs’ Calvin Klein Advert Has Been Reversed -- Sort Of
The Advertising Standards Authority concluded that the image was not sexually explicit.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has partially reversed their ban of the Calvin Klein ad starring FKA Twigs. The decision to reverse came after FKA Twig’s viral Instagram post and roaring public sentiment, citing double standards.
In the original ruling, the advert was banned in the UK alleging that it was “irresponsible” and could be regarded as offensive as it seemingly objectifies women. According to reports, the ASA said that the “image’s composition placed viewers’ focus on the model’s body rather than on the clothing being advertised, adding that the advert “presented [twigs] as a stereotypical sexual object,” focusing on her “physical features.”
The advert was investigated after just two people complained that it was “overly sexualized.” Similarly, complaints were reportedly filed against the advert starring Kendall Jenner, though the ASA did not deem that advert as offensive.
In a statement, Calvin Klein said “The images were not vulgar and were of two confident and empowered women who had chosen to identify with the Calvin Klein brand, and the ads contained a progressive and enlightened message,” adding that twigs’ poses were “natural and neutral.”
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The artist also addressed the controversy in a statement shared on Instagram. “I do not see the ‘stereotypical sexual object’ that they have labelled me. I see a beautiful strong woman of colour whose incredible body has overcome more pain than you can imagine,” she began.
“In light of reviewing other campaigns past and current of this nature, I can’t help but feel there are some double standards here. so to be clear… I am proud of my physicality and hold the art I create with my vessel to the standards of women like Josephine Baker, Eartha Kitt and Grace Jones who broke down barriers of what it looks like to be empowered and harness a unique embodied sensuality. Thank you to CK and Mert and Marcus who gave me a space to express myself exactly how I wanted to – I will not have my narrative changed,” Twigs continued.
As expected (and rightly so,) the former decision by the ASA was met with criticism from fans, particularly given that it came shortly after that Jeremy Allen White campaign was released.
As a result, the ASA reviewed their decision and concluded that the image was not sexually explicit. However, they have prohibited it from being displayed where children may see it. They also declared this republished ruling was final.
