Sydney Sweeney teams up with American Eagle again in revamped ad

Sydney Sweeney has reunited with American Eagle for a fresh denim campaign after their previous collaboration drew widespread criticism. The new initiative, titled The Sydney Jean, features the actress promoting mental health awareness while showcasing the redesigned jeans.

The advertisement depicts Sweeney reclining on a cream sofa, the jeans styled with a wide-leg cut, a stitched butterfly accent on the back pocket, and a soft pink leather label reading Sydney Sweeney x American Eagle. A detachable gold charm includes small keepsakes from her life, including a boxing glove referencing her portrayal of Christy Martin in a recent biopic.

Despite the new charitable focus, the collaboration has already met scrutiny online. Social media users questioned the shift in messaging, pointing out that it comes after the earlier campaign sparked controversy over remarks about genetics and personal traits. Critics accused her of being tone-deaf, with comparisons drawn to propaganda, though Sweeney has repeatedly emphasised her personal values in interviews.

In a recent conversation with GQ, she addressed the backlash directly, stating, “I know who I am. I know what I value. I know that I’m a kind person. I know that I love a lot, and I know that I’m just excited to see what happens next. And so I don’t really let other people define who I am.” She also reflected on her daily style, adding, “I did a jean ad. I mean, the reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans. I’m literally in jeans and a T-shirt every day of my life.”

The campaign follows Sweeney’s recent projects, including her biopic role as boxer Christy Martin, and positions her efforts at combining fashion with social impact. Fans and critics alike are watching closely to see whether the latest initiative reshapes public perception after the earlier controversy.