American consumers managed to sidestep allegations of “fascism” and “racism” linked to a controversial jeans advertisement starring Sidney Sweeney. This controversy seems to have impacted the company’s profit margins.
American Eagle recently boosted its annual sales predictions due to a surge in holiday shopping, with its stock jumping nearly 15% in early Thursday trading.
American Eagle anticipates an 8% to 9% increase in sales during this holiday season. This marks an impressive 139% rise in the retailer’s stock since the ad’s release in July.
However, left-leaning critics on TikTok and elsewhere were quick to condemn the ad, citing its provocative visuals featuring the blonde, blue-eyed actress as problematic. They expressed outrage at her endorsement of the jeans’ quality. One user called out the brand saying, “Should we really be surprised that a company called American Eagle would engage in this kind of fascist propaganda? It’s shocking. Like, a white woman with blonde hair and blue eyes promoting her superior genes? That’s Nazi propaganda!”
Another user suggested that anyone who fails to comprehend the gravity of this messaging must open their eyes wide, labeling it, “Nazi stuff, pure Nazi stuff! Suggesting blonde, blue-eyed girls have good genes connects directly to eugenics!”
Despite criticisms from many on the right, who dismissed the backlash as an overreaction, consumer response seems unaffected by the controversy.
Even President Donald Trump joined the debate, praising the advertisement after learning about Sweeney’s political affiliation. “Is she a registered Republican? Oh, I love her ads now. Right?” he remarked to reporters in August. He added, “You’d be surprised how many Republicans there are.”
