High-end loungewear brand Aviator Nation is facing public criticism after a video showing a homeless man sleeping in one of its Austin, Texas stores was shared online. The footage, posted by Instagram user @basedinmalibu, depicted the man resting on a chair as customers browsed merchandise nearby. The brand, known for its $165 sweatpants and celebrity clientele, was accused of not addressing the situation.
In the video, the man, described as having a long beard and wearing dirty clothing, was seen asleep on a yellow suede seat. The user who posted the video claimed a sales associate stated they could not intervene because the man had become "aggressive." She urged the brand to "do something about this" for the safety of employees and customers.
The incident sparked a divided reaction on social media. Many commenters criticized Aviator Nation, with some suggesting the store should have called the police or security. Others defended the brand, advocating for kindness and suggesting the man might have felt safe enough to rest there. Some users expressed that they would not shop at the store after seeing the video.
Aviator Nation, popular among celebrities such as Adam Sandler, Gwyneth Paltrow, Denise Richards, and Heidi Klum, has 20 brick-and-mortar locations across the United States. Its stores are often situated in high-end areas, and the brand's products are also sold in upscale boutiques and department stores like Bloomingdale's and Saks Fifth Avenue.