Blood-spattered Kent State shirt latest in Urban Outfitters’ missteps

Teen apparel retailer Urban Outfitters apologized on Monday after criticism for selling a vintage Kent State University sweatshirt that appeared to be splattered with blood-red dye in a look reminiscent of an infamous 1970 campus shooting. Images of the sweatshirt quickly circulated online and drew immediate response from Kent State University and survivors of the shooting by National Guard soldiers, who said the retailer was exploiting a tragedy for publicity and profit.

This item is beyond poor taste and trivializes a loss of life that still hurts the Kent State community today.

Kent State University statement

Urban Outfitters has attracted public criticism over other controversial items, including T-shirts with the words “eat less” printed across the chest. Actress Sophia Bush in 2010 said the shirts glorified eating disorders and called for a boycott. Last year, the retailer pulled a series of shot glasses and flasks that resembled prescription pill bottles after lawmakers said the items promoted drug use.

Business Urban Outfitters