BLACKPINK’s Jennie is facing a surprising backlash following her appearance at the Calvin Klein show during New York Fashion Week on February 13, 2026. Despite widespread praise for her minimalist yet striking outfit, a segment of online commenters have leveled criticism at the K-pop star, sparking a debate about beauty standards and online negativity.
Jennie attended the Calvin Klein Collection Fall 2026 runway show, generating significant buzz even before taking her seat. Rumors of a potential collaboration with the brand had already circulated, adding to the anticipation. Her outfit, while understated, was lauded for highlighting her “unreal visuals,” as many fans commented online. Calvin Klein themselves shared a photo of Jennie arriving at the event on X (formerly Twitter), further amplifying her presence.
The initial reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms were flooded with images and videos of Jennie, with fans praising her confidence and style. One user commented, “jennie at the calvin klein show, she looks so good,” while another remarked, “i’m actually confused bc this is one of her most minimal looks ever and its somehow clearing the full glam over the top styling.” The placement of Jennie in the front row alongside Dakota Johnson further solidified her status as a major event draw.
However, the positive reception was quickly countered by a wave of negative comments, originating from a popular X account. The criticism ranged from dismissive remarks about her appearance – including the use of the term “chopped” – to accusations that she makes everything she wears look “cheap and Vgly.” One commenter questioned, “Way does she get uglier every time and meke everyting cheap?” These comments, while representing a vocal minority, quickly gained traction and fueled a broader discussion about online hate and unrealistic expectations placed on female celebrities.
The incident highlights a recurring pattern of intense scrutiny faced by Jennie and other members of BLACKPINK. While the group enjoys immense global success, they are also frequent targets of online negativity, often stemming from anonymous accounts. This latest episode appears to be part of a larger trend of malicious attacks directed towards the idol group, extending beyond typical fandom disagreements.
The contrast between the enthusiastic fan response and the harsh criticism is particularly striking. Many observers noted the irony that Jennie’s minimalist look, intended to showcase her natural beauty, became the focal point of negative attention. This underscores the often-illogical nature of online hate and the difficulty of satisfying subjective aesthetic preferences.
Jennie’s appearance at the Calvin Klein show wasn’t solely about fashion; it represented a significant moment for the brand as well. The event itself, and Jennie’s presence, generated considerable media coverage and social media engagement. Calvin Klein has increasingly focused on collaborations with high-profile celebrities to enhance its brand image, and Jennie’s involvement aligns with this strategy. In February 2024, Jennie was already featured in a Calvin Klein campaign for Spring 2024, showcasing a black bralette and boxer brief-style shorts with the brand’s signature logo, paired with an oversized denim jacket. The campaign was praised for its “power” and confidence, with fans celebrating Jennie’s ability to embody the brand’s aesthetic.
The current controversy, however, serves as a reminder of the challenges brands face when aligning themselves with public figures. While celebrity endorsements can boost visibility and appeal, they also expose brands to the potential fallout from negative publicity surrounding those individuals. The incident also echoes a previous controversy in May 2025, involving Calvin Klein and accusations of “reverse discrimination,” though details of that event remain limited.
The situation raises broader questions about the responsibility of social media platforms to address online harassment and the impact of negativity on the mental health of public figures. While Jennie has not yet publicly addressed the recent criticism, the incident underscores the need for greater awareness and accountability in online spaces. The incident also comes after fans previously rallied to Jennie’s defense following criticism of her outfit and actions during a BLACKPINK concert in December 2022, demonstrating a consistent pattern of online attacks and subsequent fan support.
As of February 14, 2026, the debate surrounding Jennie’s appearance continues to unfold online. While the negative comments represent a minority viewpoint, they highlight the pervasive nature of online hate and the challenges faced by celebrities in navigating the digital landscape. The incident serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly positive moments, like a high-profile fashion show appearance, can be overshadowed by negativity and unwarranted criticism.
