A recent American Eagle jeans ad featuring Sydney Sweeney has sparked controversy, with some claiming it symbolizes the “death of woke” and eugenics. However, others see it as a playful jab at societal expectations around beauty standards.
The ad, which centers on a pun playing on genes/jeans, has been criticized for its perceived emphasis on physical appearance. Some have accused American Eagle of perpetuating toxic ideals about blonde bombshells, reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe and Jean Harlow’s iconic images.
However, the outrage surrounding the ad suggests there may be more to it than initially meets the eye. The campaign taps into the enduring legacy of blonde bombshell imagery, revealing its continued impact on societal attitudes towards sexuality, race, and gender.
The ad’s surreal combination of Sweeney’s blonde features with a jeans-focused message has reignited discussions about the tension between beauty standards and social commentary. While American Eagle may not have intended to stir up controversy, it has done so by tapping into a cultural phenomenon that continues to fascinate and offend in equal measure.
Source: https://www.vox.com/culture/422366/sydney-sweeney-american-eagle-jeans-ad-controversy-blonde-bombshell