The Gap is pulling a widely mocked social media post about a hoodie that symbolized a united America, saying it was "just too soon.”
The casual clothing brand raised eyebrows Wednesday, as ballots were still being counted in the White House race between President Trump
Donald TrumpCIA chief threatened to resign over push to install Trump loyalist as deputy: report Azar in departure letter says Capitol riot threatens to 'tarnish' administration's accomplishments Justice Dept. argues Trump should get immunity from rape accuser's lawsuit MORE and Democratic nominee Joe Biden
Joe BidenAzar in departure letter says Capitol riot threatens to 'tarnish' administration's accomplishments House Democrats introduce measures to oppose Trump's bomb sale to Saudis On The Money: Retail sales drop in latest sign of weakening economy | Fast-food workers strike for minimum wage | US officials raise concerns over Mexico's handling of energy permits MORE, when it tweeted an image of a half blue and half red hoodie.
Included with the chromatically divided zip-up was a message: "The one thing we know, is that together, we can move forward."
After social media users quickly pounced on the tweet — mocking the apparel company and dubbing it tone-deaf — the Gap released a statement.
"From the start we have been a brand that bridges the gap between individuals, cultures and generations. The intention of our social media post, that featured a red and blue hoodie, was to show the power of unity," the retailer — which describes itself on its Twitter profile as "optimistic American style" — told ITK.
"It was just too soon for this message. We remain optimistic that our country will come together to drive positive change for all," Gap Inc. corporate communications said.
The about-face didn't stop the internet from roasting the bipartisan hoodie, which was not an actual item for sale.
“See, at least we all have the decency of a comfortable mid-layer in common!” https://t.co/8pQtSIb98l
— Jeff Beer (@jeffcbeer) November 4, 2020
I was feeling pretty down about how divided our country is until Gap tweeted that half blue, half red hoodie. Thank you @Gap
— Matt Easley (@Matt_Easley50) November 4, 2020
Now is really not the time @gap for this corporate Karen bullshit. A coup attempt is not a fucking marketing opportunity to push product. pic.twitter.com/w2KTHu3e97
— Christopher Wylie ️ (@chrisinsilico) November 4, 2020
The one thing we know, is that together, we can move forward."
.@Gap the misaligned A is the perfect symbolism for this post pic.twitter.com/z2h4wOM9jx
— Mike Burns (@mikefburns) November 4, 2020
going to wear this during the next civil war so both sides know not to shoot me
— patrick wells (@pwells) November 4, 2020
