Dive Summary:

• Urban Outfitters discovered itself involved in another familiar conflict following a social media backlash by consumers towards a t-shirt the retailer was selling.
• In response to the outcry, Urban Outfitters has pulled the merchandise in question from the virtual shelves of its online storefront and issued an apology.
• The t-shirt was designed by Singaporean fashion label Depression and was not available for purchase in-store through Urban Outfitters.

Dive Insight:

Urban Outfitters experienced a similar controversy over fashion merchandise in 2010, after selling a t-shirt that read “Eat Less” through its online site. The retailer removed that item and issued an apology to any consumers which may have been offended. In addition to its banner, Urban Outfitters also operates clothing store brands Free People and Anthropologie.