US clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch is facing a lawsuit over allegations it refused to hire a Muslim job applicant because she wore a religious head scarf.

A workplace discrimination lawsuit has been filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on behalf of the applicant.

According to the EEOC, an 18-year-old female had applied for a job stocking merchandise at the Abercrombie Kids store at the Great Mall in Milpitas, California.

The EEOC said she wore a colourful headscarf to her interview. It then claims that the Abercrombie & Fitch manager asked if she was Muslim and required to wear a head scarf, before allegedly marking “not Abercrombie look” on the young woman’s interview form.

EEOC San Francisco district director Michael Baldonado added: “Looking beyond race, color, national origin, gender and religion, as required by federal law, should complement an effort to promote an ‘All-American’ image.  Instead, Abercrombie & Fitch used its brand to exclude and discriminate again, this time against a Muslim teen who was honoring her faith while following her love of fashion.”

Spokespeople for Abercrombie & Fitch were not available to comment on the filing when contacted this afternoon.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Style Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Style Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now