Calvin Klein Forced To Remove Spring 2017 Underwear Ad Because Model "Looked 12"

The time-honored phrase “sex sells” is certainly familiar to Calvin Klein. The label is famous for its provocative underwear advertisements, but now, CK is facing heavy criticisms over a sensual new ad in the UK. 

The ad in question featured model Lulu Tenney dressed in nothing more than a black bra in a boutique window. It was called “inappropriate” and “irresponsible” by customers who requested its removal. 

One woman, Rachel Ashby, told the Daily Mail she thought the image was inappropriate because the model appeared to be aged between 12 and 14 years old. 

“While I realize it is likely she is probably of legal age to appear, the fact that she looks underage in terms of body shape and somewhat vulnerable facial expression combined with the fact that she is wearing very little and is adopting a strangely provocative pose means it could be deemed to sexualize children,” complained Ashby. 

The ad was immediately pulled. Tenney is an industry darling who has done extensive work for CK, Ralph Lauren and covered Vogue Italia. 

It should be noted that all underwear models in the UK must be over 18 years old, a point Ashby also mentioned. So, is it wrong for a brand to tap a model of age with a “youthful” appearance? The jury’s still out on this one.