Born in the USA: Is American Eagle really using whiteness to sell jeans?

American Eagle, a popular teen denim brand, is facing controversy for its latest advertising campaign. The campaign features actress Sydney Sweeney and uses phrases that some critics interpret as referencing eugenics. One ad states "Sydney Sweeney has great genes jeans," while another video Sweeney made connected genetic traits to her "blue jeans." This has led to accusations that the brand is using problematic language to sell its products. Supporters, however, argue that the brand is simply being playful and is pushing back against overly "woke" advertising trends. The brand is known for its denim and casual wear targeted at young girls. On platforms like TikTok, the brand is usually praised for its fashion. The controversial campaign has sparked a debate online about the brand's messaging. The company has since removed some of the more contentious content from its social media.