The U.K. Advertising Standards Authority has reversed its decision made two months ago concerning a Calvin Klein underwear ad from 2023 starring singer FKA Twigs. Initially, the ASA deemed the ad, part of a broader poster campaign with Kendall Jenner, as objectifying the singer and ordered its removal.
On Wednesday, the self-regulatory organization of the advertising industry issued an updated ruling stating that although viewers may focus on the model’s physique, the images were deemed “not sexually explicit.”
The ASA further noted that “the ad presented a woman who appeared to be confident and in control,” urging Calvin Klein Inc. to ensure future ads are targeted appropriately. WWD has contacted Calvin Klein and FKA Twigs for remarks.
As reported on Jan. 10, the ASA received two complaints regarding images of FKA Twigs, a British singer, songwriter, and dancer. The watchdog initially deemed the singer’s partial nudity and facial expression as sexually suggestive, unfit for untargeted display.
In response, Calvin Klein Inc. argued the ads aligned with their longstanding U.K. publications, asserting they didn’t overly sexualize women and were not irresponsible. FKA Twigs contested the ruling on Instagram.
“I see a beautiful, strong woman of colour whose incredible body has overcome more pain than you can imagine,” she wrote.
“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,” the singer added.
She expressed gratitude to Calvin Klein and photographers Mert & Marcus for the campaign, asserting, “I will not have my narrative changed.”
Despite its frequent involvement, the ASA is a non-statutory organization and lacks the authority to interpret or enforce legislation in the U.K. Typically, it adjudicates on cases spurred by a few complaints from the public, as seen in FKA Twigs’ case.
