Shopper Voices Concern Over Target Sweater, and the Store Shares Its Response

In recent years, many shoppers have become more mindful of the messages displayed on clothing and other products, often encouraging broader conversations about thoughtful design.

Target, one of the largest retail chains in the United States, found itself part of this dialogue when a customer voiced concern about a T-shirt being sold in stores.

Although the same shirt was available at other retailers, this shopper felt the wording deserved careful consideration, especially because of the meaning behind it. Moments like these highlight how consumer feedback continues to influence discussions around inclusivity and sensitivity in everyday merchandise.

The T-shirt featured the phrase “OCD Christmas obsessive-compulsive disorder,” a design that the customer, Reign Murphy, believed could unintentionally overlook the seriousness of an actual mental health condition. OCD affects millions of people, many of whom work to raise awareness and reduce stigma through open conversation. Murphy felt that placing the term in a humorous or playful context might not reflect the experiences of those who manage the condition daily. Her perspective brought attention to how important it is for brands to consider how certain phrases can be interpreted differently depending on personal background.