Hallensteins has responded after a screenshot of a pair of jeans advertised as 'absent dad' jeans sparked confusion online.
The New Zealand men's fashion store has drawn criticism and amusement from online commenters after naming one of their products 'Absent Dad Relaxed Jeans in Blue'.
"Is a relaxed absent dad so common in NZ they have their own uniform?" one person wrote on Reddit on Saturday.
"Lol, wow," a person replied.
"I mean, when I picture a scumbag absentee dad, those are the exact jeans I would expect him to be wearing."
"Triggered. Miss you absent Dad," another wrote.
One person remarked the jeans appeared "perfect for a trip to the dairy to pick up some smokes," while another said they looked suitable for "taking the kids to Maccas on one of your twice-yearly visits".
Hallensteins explained to Newshub 'Absent' is an inhouse brand and 'Dad' is the style name.
They have changed the product's name to 'Absent Relaxed Dad Fit Jeans' since Newshub made enquiries.
In 2019, the New Zealand-owned fashion retailer attracted controversy for putting a female model front and centre of its suit campaign.
"Hallensteins is a male clothing store? This is ridiculous!" one person wrote on Facebook.
One woman even wrote that they should "let the boys have something to themselves for once".
