Small business hits back after Kelly Clarkson posts scathing review
Singer Kelly Clarkson publicly criticized a Brooklyn boutique for poor service, claiming she was treated as if she could not afford their items. The store responded by clarifying that the item she wanted to purchase was a non-saleable display piece, leading to a public misunderstanding.
Why it matters
This highlights the power of celebrity social media influence and the potential for rapid, unverified public backlash against small businesses.
- 2.08am . First published October 11, 2026 - 11.41pm
Share article A Brooklyn store has hit back after Kelly Clarkson published a scathing review accusing staff of treating her like she “couldn’t afford” its products.
Clarkson, 44, claimed she endured an embarrassing Pretty Woman moment in speciality boutique Art of Play, but the store has now explained she had been trying to buy a product that wasn’t for sale.
Kelly Clarkson accused a Brooklyn store of treating her like she couldn’t afford their products. Getty Images for Critics Choice
On Saturday, the American Idol winner posted about her bad shopping experience on X .
Also covering this story
9 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Kelly Clarkson slams Brooklyn store over ‘Pretty Woman’ treatment
Kelly Clarkson says a Brooklyn store snubbed her. The shop says the item she wanted wasn’t for sale.
Kelly Clarkson Claims She Got the Pretty Woman Treatment at N.Y.C. Store: ‘You Just Lost a Huge Sale’ - People.com
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Store Responds After Kelly Clarkson Says Staff Treated Her Like Julia Roberts’ ‘Pretty Woman’ Character
Kelly Clarkson calls out Art of Play in Brooklyn over alleged snub
Kelly Clarkson Blasts New York Store Over 'Pretty Woman Moment' - Yahoo
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