Chanel Refuses Entry to Jennifer Lopez, Prompting Bethenny Frankel's Criticism Over Frankel's Own Store Snub
In a surprising turn of events, luxury fashion brand Chanel is facing criticism for its treatment of high-profile customers, following an incident involving global superstar Jennifer Lopez at its Istanbul store in August 2025.
According to reports, Lopez was denied entry to the Chanel store located in Istanbul's İstinye Park, with a security guard citing the store as being at full capacity[1][2][5]. Despite her calm response and graceful exit, the incident sparked a wave of criticism, with many netizens expressing their disapproval of the boutique's handling of the situation.
The boutique staff later realised their mistake and invited Lopez back to enter, but she politely declined and instead chose to spend several hours shopping at nearby luxury stores like Celine and Beymen, making purchases totaling tens of thousands of dollars[1][2][5]. This incident has highlighted problems with the boutique's security and customer service practices, which have been criticized by other customers for being rude and unwelcoming, potentially tarnishing the luxury brand’s image.
The incident gained significant media and public attention, revealing a disconnect between Chanel’s reputation as a prestigious brand and the on-the-ground experience at this Istanbul location, especially in handling high-profile clientele who might normally expect VIP treatment[3]. The event suggests a failure of the security team to identify a global superstar and an inflexible approach to capacity control that did not accommodate a high-profile customer politely or effectively.
Bethenny Frankel, a former Real Housewives of New York City star, criticized Chanel for "elitism" due to Lopez's rejection. Frankel noted that the Istanbul store's treatment of Lopez might generate more press for Chanel, but at the expense of damaging its reputation[4]. Frankel's concern extends to everyday shoppers who might face similar treatment at Chanel stores.
High-ranking individuals tied to the Wertheimer family, who own Chanel, were reportedly "horrified" after learning of the incident[6]. Frankel's encounter with the Chanel store in Chicago in 2024 stayed with her, leading her to return the next day in a pearl-buttoned dress and heels[7]. Frankel was allowed into the store without hesitation on her second visit, but left without shopping as a symbolic gesture.
Numerous netizens praised Frankel's "walk in and walk out" gesture towards the luxury brand, with some even advocating for boycotting Chanel until changes are made in its customer service policies[8]. The incident has sparked a larger conversation about the importance of treating all customers with respect and dignity, regardless of their celebrity status.
[1] Bored Panda Poll [2] TikTok Video [3] New York Post [4] Bethenny Frankel's Criticism [5] People Magazine [6] Wertheimer Family's Response [7] Bethenny Frankel's Second Visit [8] Netizen Reactions
"This incident involving Jennifer Lopez highlights the criticism Chanel's treatment of celebrities and high-profile customers is receiving, especially in the realm of pop-culture. Bethenny Frankel, a former Real Housewives of New York City star, has spoken out against Chanel's perceived elitism due to Lopez's rejection."
"The public's response to the incident, with numerous netizens advocating for boycotting Chanel until changes in customer service policies are implemented, underscores the importance of respecting all customers, including celebrities, in the realm of entertainment and pop-culture."
