Bikini brand hits back at critics after using a male model for swimsuit campaign

23 January 2024 , 09:47

900     0

The brand doubled down at the negative remarks about a man in a swimsuit (Image: Moana Bikini)

A bikini brand has told people who are offended by a man wearing one of their swimsuits it's "their problem" as they clap back at criticisms over their campaign.

Australian swimwear brand Moana Bikini (@moana_bikini) prides itself on empowerment and body positivity, but a recent campaign that features a male model has angered fans.

People are even going as far to say they are "done" with the brand, accusing it of trying to be "woke" after it championed a male model in a swimsuit shoot.

Moana Bikini have fiercely defended their decision, despite fans accusing the brand of going against everything they stand for.

Fans are slamming the brand for trying to be 'woke' (Moana Bikini)

The model himself clapped back and said he was 'empowering' the minority (Moana Bikini)

"Is that a man? I thought you were about empowering women?" One fan wrote on Moana Bikini's post, while another added: "Horrible marketing. Why is it everyone is trying so hard to be 'woke' The model is gorgeous but this is not it."

'I don't want children staying up late at weekends - I really need adult time'

A third chimed: "This is bad advertising if the target audience is women. A man wearing a piece designed for women....not going to make most women want to buy it."

The post, which racked up over 1,000 comments, has caused outrage, but others didn't see the issue. One person wrote: "These comments are weird...the bathing suits are for anyone who wants to wear them. Why does someone in a bathing suit bother you so much lol."

After the post gained serious traction, the brand itself issued a statement and said: "If Jake in our bikini upsets you that much we feel as though this may be a you problem."

The model himself even clapped back at the negative remarks. Jake Wood stated that he's "empowering" a minority and said: "There are many different types of women. Women with different anatomy to what you consider 'normal'.

"I am not a woman nor have I ever claimed to be. This post is simply empowering a minority and I'm forever grateful for that. Your hate is a reflection of your own insecurities, not mine. Thank you @moana_bikini."

Another fan simply shared: "We see plenty of women in Moana swimwear and showcasing an incredible man wearing a piece of literal CLOTHING does not take the empowerment away from women."

Niamh Kirk