Aerie’s “No AI” Ad Pledge Becomes Its Most Popular Post of the Year
Updated on
Published on
Key Facts
- Aerie’s Instagram post rejecting AI-generated ads gained over 40,000 likes and 500 comments.
- The brand promised “No retouching. No AI. 100% real people.”
- Engagement on Aerie’s Instagram surged 75% following the post.
Aerie has gone viral for its human-first marketing stance, pledging not to use AI-generated models or imagery in its advertising. The message, shared on Instagram earlier this month, quickly became the brand’s most engaged post in a year—earning praise from followers for keeping its campaigns authentic.
Chief Marketing Officer Stacey McCormick said the move builds on Aerie’s decade-long “real beauty” commitment, which began in 2014 when the brand stopped retouching images. As generative AI reshapes the marketing landscape, McCormick emphasized that staying human is central to maintaining customer trust and emotional connection.
Industry analysts say Aerie’s timing is spot-on. With growing skepticism around AI in advertising, its transparent stance sets it apart from competitors. The campaign not only aligns with consumer sentiment—it also reinforces Aerie’s identity as a brand grounded in honesty, inclusivity, and real people.
