Filthy logo

Calvin Klein Classic Essentials

Revisiting the history of Calvin Klein classic advertisements is the essential component of its marketing strategy.

By Filthy StaffPublished 8 years ago 4 min read
Like

Calvin Klein classic essentials have been a part of fashion's collective wardrobe for decades. First introduced in the 1960s, Calvin Klein was designing coats and undercoats for men. However, by the 1970s and into the 1980s, the theme of the clothing brand as a whole dramatically changed. It has morphed over the years into a business and sportswear brand, and then into the underwear brand we know today. Perhaps the most notable, recognizable, and sometimes controversial side of Calvin Klein have been their advertisements; Can you say Bieber? Calvin Klein’s underwear advertisements, as we know them today, first appeared in the 1980s and though they have been the center of appeal, conversation, and controversy for many years, the clothing designer shows no signs of slowing down, and clearly has no shortage of celebrities willing to model the product. With a wide range of products to choose from, all being classic, stylish and comfortable, buyer beware and be ready to spice up your wardrobe.

This ad, featuring supermodel Kate Moss, first debuted in 1992, advertising underwear for women in a new light. Kate Moss would go on to do many shoots for Calvin Klein, including a controversial 1993 shoot where she is featured on a bus stop, completely naked. Though this particular ad may seem tame compared to that, at the time it was considered extremely provocative. One would assume that Moss is a fan of the Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Thong Panty because of its comfortable cotton-blend and wide elastic waistband, though her color preference is still up for debate.

Whether you choose Tinted Rose or Summer Pine, the machine washable Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Bikini Pant are the only thing that should come between you and your Calvins. Unless, of course, you are like Moss in this ad and are not wearing any jeans. Another one of Kate Moss’ famous Calvin Klein billboards is featuring Mark Wahlberg. This is one of many shots from the pair’s session together, known for being somewhat controversial at the time, since Wahlberg is not the only topless figure in the picture. Kate Moss was only 17 at the time, causing viewers to raise eyebrows at her attire, or lack thereof. Mark Wahlberg would also go on to do an iconic Calvin Klein shoot of his own, that is one of the most well-recognized even to this day.

This 1995 ad featuring Milla Jovovich for Calvin Klein's Escape fragrance took cinematic-quality performance to the small screen of commercials and caused controversy with its suggestive, sexual themes between a man and a woman, partial nudity, and provocative wording. The good news is that Calvin Klien CK One Eau de Toilette can be worn by both men and women. Its clean and contemporary scent appeals to all and is a must-have classic.

Christy Turlington is an American supermodel who first modeled for Calvin Klein in 1989. She was featured in their debut swimwear line for women here in 1995. The Calvin Klein Women's Mesh High Neck One Piece Swimsuit is a watermelon hued beauty. The one piece, mesh overlayed suit combined with Turlington and her body to be the center focus of the ad. It became a quick topic of conversation all over the world, and Calvin Klein swimwear saw a dramatic increase in sales.

Christy Turlington was again used in 1995 to model Calvin Klein underwear for women. Turlington’s athletic build was used to encourage women to purchase the "sporty" side of Calvin, proving that it could be just as sexy as any other underwear they had to offer. The specific cut of these underwear are what makes this advertisement prominent on this list, and a controversial ad for the time. However, the Calvin Klein Women's Modern Cotton Bralette and Bikini gift set does make the perfect addition to any woman's lingerie wardrobe. Coming in an array of colors, the comfortable duo is machine washable and features the iconic Calvin Klein logo.

Christy Turlington was featured again in 1995 in a more exposing shot, modeling underwear with a bit less coverage than what readers were used to for her particular advertisements. From the fabric to Turlington’s pose, the suggestive nature of this ad certainly had people talking. Though it didn't stop anyone from buying the comfortable Calvin Klein Women's Modern Cotton T-Shirt Bra. With adjustable straps and cushion closure, this machine washable piece of underwear feels great under anything you wear.

Christy Turlington returned to Calvin Klein once again in 2014 for an underwear shoot. Modeling the Calvin Klein Women's Rebel Wire Free Triangle Bra, she only made the provocative and enticing stipe and mesh detail even more provocative. With nearly 20 years between her Calvin shoots, Christy easily proved in this session, and this particular ad, that age doesn’t defy beauty or sexiness. Her underwear here may even be considered more provocative than her older ads, which is not only a sign of progressive times, but proof that anyone can be sexy at any age.

Like

About the Creator

Filthy Staff

A group of inappropriate, unconventional & disruptive professionals. Some are women, some are men, some are straight, some are gay. All are Filthy.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.