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# Hip Mayoral Scandal T-Shirts
American Apparel's Exclusive Shirts Feature Rob Ford, Toronto Mayor

By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2013-11-27 | Pop Culture
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rob-ford-toronto
References: [nowtoronto](http://www.nowtoronto.com/daily/story.cfm?content=195239) & [blogto](http://www.blogto.com/fashion_style/2013/11/this_week_in_fashion_american_apparel_rob_ford_shirt_miljo_release_eco-backpack_upcoming_events_parties/)

In response to some of the controversy surrounding Rob Ford, Toronto mayor, [American Apparel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clare-v) is offering a ‘Rob Ford 2013’ t-shirt that’s a factory outlet exclusive. The announcement about the t-shirt depicting the wayward mayor of Toronto came with the subject line “God Bless the People of Toronto,” which are now infamous words Ford uttered at a recent press conference.

The [limited American Apparel t-shirt](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/takashi-murakami-tee) is exclusively available at Toronto’s new Spadina Factory Outlet. The shirt depicts Ford with his arms outstretched in a Nixon-like pose, with eight [rainbow Ford heads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tom-of-finland-foundation) above it. In small print on the bottom, the shirt reads ‘Rob Ford 2013.’ Whether or not Ford is elected back into office in 2014, this commemorative t-shirt will help Torontonians to remember some of the crazy times they and the rest of the world have been witness to.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.9/10
- Popularity: 25% | Activity: 25% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Pop Culture](https://www.trendhunter.com/popculture) > [Humor](https://www.trendhunter.com/humor)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Controversial Apparel:** Creating clothing that pushes boundaries and takes a stand on current social and political issues can capture the attention of the public and generate buzz.
- **Limited Edition Merchandise:** Offering exclusive products for a limited time can drive up demand and create a sense of urgency among consumers.
- **Satirical Design:** Using humor and satire in design can attract attention and resonate with consumers who appreciate irreverent attitudes.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Fashion Retail:** Fashion retailers can use controversial designs and limited edition merchandise to drive traffic and sales in store, as well as online.
- **Political Commentary:** Using satirical designs to make political commentary can resonate with consumers who are passionate about current events.
- **Marketing and Advertising:** Satirical designs can be used as a way to generate buzz and attention for brands through social media and other advertising channels.

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