Which photographer shot the controversial 1995 Calvin Klein jeans campaign?

Steven Meisel shot the controversial 1995 Calvin Klein jeans campaign.

The advertisements became notorious for their suggestive styling and youthful-looking models. Critics described the images as sexualizing teenagers, with some using the phrase “kiddie porn”; Calvin Klein withdrew the campaign after the backlash. The controversy helped make the campaign one of the most discussed episodes in 1990s fashion advertising.

Meisel was already a major fashion photographer, known for editorial work in Vogue and Vogue Italia as well as commercial campaigns. His stark, carefully controlled images fit Calvin Klein’s minimalist advertising identity, which often relied on provocative casting and uncluttered compositions.

A common mix-up is confusing this campaign with other famous Calvin Klein work. Richard Avedon photographed and directed the 1980 Calvin Klein Jeans campaign featuring Brooke Shields, while Bruce Weber became strongly associated with Calvin Klein underwear and other advertising. Those photographers worked with the brand, but Meisel is the answer for the disputed 1995 jeans campaign.