Palantir, the controversial data company that works with military and immigration agencies, just announced it’s selling chore coats. Their executive posted photos of a “lightweight Palantir chore coat” on social media, complete with fabric details and a release date.
This isn’t your typical corporate swag. The company is marketing these jackets like a trendy streetwear drop, blurring the line between tech companies and fashion brands in a way that’s making people uncomfortable.
Fashion Police Called In
The coats immediately sparked backlash online. Critics pointed out that a company obsessed with American patriotism chose to copy French jacket designs instead of classic American workwear styles. “A company claiming to champion the US should’ve done a US chore coat,” one person wrote, noting that traditional American work jackets used denim and had four pockets instead of three.
Palantir’s head of strategic engagement defended the choice, saying France is an American ally and he wanted something “stylish” for employees to wear when visiting clients. The jackets are made in America from 100% cotton and designed for subtle branding.
The fashion controversy adds to Palantir’s long list of PR headaches. The company regularly faces criticism for its work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and military contracts. Recently, they posted a 22-point political manifesto that stirred up more debate about their role in society.
Expect more tech companies to test fashion waters as they look for new ways to build brand loyalty and cultural relevance.
