Kelly Clarkson Claims Poor Treatment at Brooklyn Store; Business Shares Positive Reviews
The singer alleged discrimination at Art of Play, prompting the shop to repost customer testimonials.
Singer Kelly Clarkson alleged on social media that she was treated unfairly by staff at the Brooklyn design shop Art of Play. Clarkson, 44, claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that she was "looked at as if I couldn't afford" the store's products, a moment she likened to a scene from the 1990 film "Pretty Woman." In that movie, Julia Roberts portrays a sex worker who experiences discrimination in a high-end retail setting.
Clarkson stated she had driven to Brooklyn with the intention of purchasing items from the store. She described the employee who assisted her as "a huge idiot" and remarked, "You just lost a huge sale." She further advised her followers to visit Art of Play if they "enjoy being treated like Julia Roberts' character in Pretty Woman."
Following Clarkson's accusations, Art of Play reportedly shared a glowing customer review via Instagram Stories. The reposted review read, "From the very first time I walked into @artofplay, I felt welcomed and treated with such genuine kindness. I love discovering unique treasures and connecting with the wonderful people there."
The review continued, "[Art of Play is] a place that leaves you smiling and wanting to come back. I’m already counting down the days until I return in two weeks." The business also re-shared another client's post that stated, "For what it's worth, I think @artofplay is a great store!" These posts have since been deleted.
The Daily Mail has reached out to Art of Play for comment.
Clarkson's talk show, "The Kelly Clarkson Show," is set to conclude its seven-season run this fall. She announced in February that she would be stepping away from the series to spend more time with her children, River, 12, and Remy, 10. She noted that the decision was difficult, particularly due to the impact on her staff, whom she described as family. Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, passed away in August 2025. Her focus, she stated, remains on her children as they navigate their grief.