We all know the old adage “sex sells,” where companies use enticing imagery and themes in their advertisements to attract attention in the hopes of boosting sales. No one exemplifies this better than Calvin Klein, the fashion brand that has revolutionized the perception of underwear, transforming it from ordinary essentials into coveted designer pieces.
Since its launch, Calvin Klein’s underwear advertisements have created cultural moments, frequently featuring A-list actors, models, athletes, and musicians. The brand, already known for its iconic jeans, unveiled its first Calvin Klein underwear campaign in 1982, featuring Olympian Tom Hintnaus.
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Decades later, Calvin Klein capitalized on the rise of social media with the #MyCalvins campaign, encouraging celebrities, influencers, and everyday people to share their Calvin moments—ideally while wearing their underwear—on various platforms. Today, fans eagerly anticipate each new campaign, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars in Calvin Klein’s skivvies.
Iconic Calvin Klein Ads Featuring Famous Men
Below, we highlight six renowned men who have boldly showcased their assets in unforgettable Calvin Klein advertisements.
Bad Bunny
The Puerto Rican rapper, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, made a splash as the face of Calvin Klein’s Spring 2025 campaign, featuring a series of sultry photographs and a captivating video. “I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to be part of this brand’s iconic campaign, and getting to shoot it in Puerto Rico made it that much more special and genuine,” said Bad Bunny in a statement.
Justin Bieber
Calvin Klein enlisted Justin Bieber for their Jeans and Underwear campaign in 2015, coinciding with the promotion of his hit album, Purpose. The brand revisited the pop star in 2019, featuring him alongside his model wife, Hailey Bieber, in a subsequent ad.
Michael B. Jordan
In Spring 2023, Black Panther actor Michael B. Jordan became the face of Calvin Klein’s underwear campaign. Following the release of his photos in boxer briefs, Jordan humorously recounted how his friends teased him, stating, “Of course, everybody hit me about those… It’s the most probably exposing photos that I’ve had so far in my career.”
Jeremy Allen White
Actor Jeremy Allen White showcased his charm in a video advertisement for Calvin Klein’s Fall 2024 campaign. The Shameless star donned the classic white tee and white boxer briefs, shot in the vibrant backdrop of his hometown, New York City.
A$AP Rocky
A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, took center stage in Calvin Klein’s fiery “I Speak My Truth” campaign in 2019, celebrating the brand’s 50th Anniversary. His striking presence and confident demeanor added to the campaign’s allure.
Mark Wahlberg
Mark Wahlberg, famously known as Marky Mark, is often the first name that comes to mind for many when recalling Calvin Klein underwear. His provocative 1992 campaign alongside supermodel Kate Moss remains etched in pop culture history, with many fans proudly displaying his posters on their bedroom walls.
Conclusion
Calvin Klein’s strategic use of celebrity endorsements and provocative imagery has not only elevated the brand but has also significantly influenced the fashion industry. By continuously reinventing their campaigns and embracing social media, they have ensured that Calvin Klein remains a household name synonymous with desirability and modernity. As we look ahead, it will be exciting to see which celebrities will join the ranks of those who have boldly flaunted their Calvin Klein underwear, further cementing the brand’s legacy.
FAQs
What is the history of Calvin Klein’s underwear campaigns?
Calvin Klein launched its first underwear campaign in 1982, featuring Olympian Tom Hintnaus, and has since become known for its provocative and celebrity-filled advertisements.
How has social media impacted Calvin Klein’s marketing strategies?
Calvin Klein has effectively utilized social media through campaigns like #MyCalvins, allowing celebrities and fans to share their experiences with the brand, thus increasing engagement and visibility.
Which celebrities have been featured in Calvin Klein ads?
Notable celebrities featured in Calvin Klein ads include Bad Bunny, Justin Bieber, Michael B. Jordan, Jeremy Allen White, A$AP Rocky, and Mark Wahlberg, among others.
Why are Calvin Klein underwear ads considered iconic?
The combination of celebrity influence, bold imagery, and cultural relevance has made Calvin Klein underwear ads iconic, often shaping trends and conversations in the fashion industry.
