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Kelly Clarkson is calling out a Brooklyn store after she claimed an employee mistreated her.
On Saturday, the singer and talk show host took to X to share details of her recent experience at Art of Play, a store known for its collection of toys, games, books, puzzles and other unique items.
"Just drove all the way to Brooklyn to check out this store I thought looked really rad and had a few things in mind to buy and literally was looked at as if I couldn’t afford it and was told he could find something comparable for me," Clarkson wrote.
Kelly Clarkson described a recent shopping experience to one of Julia Roberts' character in "Pretty Woman." (Getty Images)
"Wow, dude. You’re an idiot and just lost a huge sale," she continued.
Clarkson then compared the encounter to a memorable scene from the 1990 film "Pretty Woman," in which Julia Roberts’ character, Vivian Ward, is dismissed by a boutique saleswoman who assumes she cannot afford the store’s clothing.
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"But y’all should go check out Art of Play in Brooklyn if you enjoy being treated like Julia Roberts’ character in ‘Pretty Woman.’ For sure, check it out," Clarkson added.
The singer’s description of the incident echoed the famous "Pretty Woman" scene, in which Vivian returns to the boutique after being rejected and tells the saleswoman, "Big mistake. Big. Huge."
Clarkson’s post quickly drew attention from her followers, some of whom defended the singer and criticized the store on social media. Several users also appeared to leave negative reviews on the business’ Google listing.
The singer called out Art of Play in Brooklyn for allegedly mistreating her. (Getty Images for The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)
One Yelp reviewer wrote, Rude!!!! If I could give zero I would! Treat people like you want to be treated walking into a store."
Art of Play so far has not issued a formal statement addressing Clarkson’s claims.
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However, the store appeared to respond indirectly by sharing an Instagram Story featuring a customer review praising the staff’s "genuine kindness," according to Us Weekly.
"From the very first time I walked into @artofplay, I felt welcomed and treated with such genuine kindness," the review stated.
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Clarkson's alleged encounter prompted chatter online. (Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)
The customer added that Art of Play was "a place that leaves you smiling and wanting to come back."
The Instagram Story was later deleted, according to the outlet.
The store posted a statement about Clarkson to their Instagram page on Sunday afternoon.
"Yesterday, Kelly Clarkson visited us in Brooklyn and inquired about buying "Molly," a one-of-a-kind singing and dancing bird automaton who plays an important role in the magic shows we host here. Molly is permanently attached to the wall and isn’t for sale," the store wrote.
Adding: "However, the negative experience Kelly described on twitter would resonate with anyone who has ever felt judged in a shop. At Art of Play whether someone comes in to make a purchase or simply look around for a while, they are equally welcome. We greet everyone who walks in the door with the invitation to "pick things up and play." And they do, many stay for hours enjoying our puzzles, games and toys."
"Imagine our surprise when our small local business was suddenly attacked by 8 million people who have never visited our store. It’s been a surreal experience to be the focus of such widespread outrage after just one mention by a celebrity. Thanks to all our friends for their support and welcome to all the curious folks who discovered us amidst the drama. We’re going to keep our heads down and hopefully, we can clear things up with Kelly someday. As a talented popular singer once said "what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger."
After the store's Instagram post, Clarkson took to her X account and Instagram stories on Sunday afternoon to respond to their claims.
"Cool, cool. Sure, it wasn't for sale. That's the narrative Art of Play is gonna go with," Clarkson wrote, adding a thumbs up emoji.
The singer continued: "So the whole conversation we had when I asked you if it was for sale whilst pointing to the price tag hanging on the wall with the title Singing Bird didn't happen as you elevator eyed me saying in a condescending tone "yes, it’s for sale but it costs 15,000 dollars so if you’d like me to find something comparable for you I can." That all never happened and now it’s not for sale. Okay, cool. So you’re not only rude, you’re also a liar. Got it," adding a checkmark emoji.
Clarkson added: "And by the way, I obviously support small businesses because I was literally at a small business trying to purchase things. I love small businesses and know they are important and I always support them, but you don’t get a free pass to treat people less than in your store just because you are a small business. It’s not that hard to be kind. I never blast people but you my friend were an exception. Your store is really cool. Unfortunately, you aren’t."
The star also added a photo which included what appeared to be an alleged price tag for the item circled in red. The photo had the caption: "Molly’s not for sale yet has a $15,000 price tag. Kelly Clarkson you will always be a real one."
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A representative for Art of Play did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
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Art of Play’s website describes the Brooklyn shop as offering "a unique collection of magical home goods, puzzles, games, toys and books." The store also features a 26-seat theater that hosts close-up magic performances.
