A simple denim campaign exploded into a cultural firestorm. Social media erupted. Critics screamed Nazi propaganda. But American Eagle isn’t budging an inch. The clothing giant fired back at outraged critics Friday with a defiant statement. They refused to apologize for their “Great Jeans” campaign starring Sydney Sweeney.
The company doubled down instead of backing down. “‘Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans’ is and always was about the jeans,” American Eagle declared boldly. “Her jeans. Her story.”
Retailer Refuses to Back Down Despite Sydney Sweeney Nazi Propaganda Accusations
The controversy began when Sweeney appeared in the denim advertisement earlier this week. The 27-year-old “Euphoria” star posed confidently in American Eagle’s latest collection. Her tagline sparked immediate backlash. “I have great jeans… now you can too,” she wrote on Instagram July 23.
Critics pounced on the apparent pun between “jeans” and “genes.” They pointed to Sweeney’s blonde hair and blue eyes. Social media users drew disturbing historical parallels. “Like, a blonde-haired, blue-eyed white woman is talking about her good genes. That is Nazi Propaganda,” one TikTok user raged. Another declared the ad would end up “in history books” as problematic marketing.
JD Vance weighs in on the controversy surrounding Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad:
— Pop Base (@PopBase) August 1, 2025
“My political advice to the Democrats is continue to tell everybody who thinks Sydney Sweeney is attractive is a Nazi. That appears to be their actual strategy. I mean, it actually reveals… pic.twitter.com/dgeySnDAq4
Major celebrities joined the pile-on against the campaign. Lizzo posted a digitally altered image mocking the advertisement. She wore Sweeney’s exact outfit with the caption “My jeans are black.” Doja Cat created her own TikTok parody. She mimicked Sweeney’s campaign monologue with an exaggerated accent.
American Eagle stood its ground despite the mounting pressure. The retailer maintained its position throughout the controversy. “We’ll continue to celebrate how everyone wears their AE jeans with confidence, their way,” the company stated firmly. They emphasized their inclusive message. “Great jeans look good on everyone.” The brand simultaneously shared alternative campaign ads featuring diverse models. This strategic move demonstrated their commitment to representation while refusing to abandon Sweeney entirely. American Eagle proved that sometimes standing firm pays off better than immediate retreat.
Also Read: Stephen Colbert Roasts Donald Trump Jr. Over Bizarre Sydney Sweeney Comparison With His Dad
