Sexy Calvin Klein billboard with half-dressed models stirs controversy in Manhattan

Racy Calvin Klein billboard raises eyebrows

NEW YORK — A racy Calvin Klein billboard is raising even New Yorkers’ jaded eyebrows, with some passers-by saying the clothing maker crossed the line with its sexy advertisement.

The new billboard shows a young woman lying on top of a man, while kissing another man. All three models are topless. Another male model reclines on the floor with his jeans unbuttoned.

“I think it’s obscene,” said Rachelle Brunn, who was passing by the extremely large billboard in Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood. “They always have ads that are pushing the envelope, but this one is the worst I’ve seen since I’ve been here. My biggest concern is that it gives teens the wrong idea.”

But Carmen Guzman wasn’t bothered by the ad. She said Americans see this kind of advertising everywhere, especially in the Big Apple.

“This is really nothing new,” Guzman said.

New York-based Calvin Klein has long been known for provocative advertising. Brooke Shields famously advertised second-skin Calvin Klein jeans in 1981 when she was a teenager, while model Kate Moss has also appeared in sexy ads.

Meanwhile, tourist Jodi Baron, who was visiting New York City from Cleveland, said the billboard’s location didn’t matter.

“One girl. Three guys. No shirts. It’s not the best way to depict women,” Baron said. “I don’t care if it’s New York City. I think it’s really inappropriate.”

Calvin Klein sells clothing and accessories, among other merchandise.

A representative for Calvin Klein declined to comment on the billboard.

Calvin Klein is owned by Phillips-Van Heusen Corp., which also owns the Bass and IZOD brands.

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AP Television reporter Bonny Ghosh contributed to this report.