Target blasted for selling ‘Trophy’ T-shirt for women; is it PC?

Is it sexist for Target to sell a T-shirt emblazoned with the word "Trophy?" Some in the Twitterverse think so and are blasting the retailer for objectifying women.

But others say the backlash is political correctness run amok, and that the T-shirts are fun -- and maybe even empowering.

"Women aren't objects," according to one tweet opposing the T-shirts.

For its part, Target reps say the shirts are all in good fun -- and popular with customers.

In a statement emailed to the Los Angeles Times, the retailer explained it this way: "It is never our intention to offend anyone and we always appreciate receiving feedback from our guests. The shirt you’re describing is part of a collection of engagement and wedding shirts that are available in our women’s and plus size departments. The collection also included shirts that say 'Team Bride,' 'Mrs.' and 'Bride.' These shirts are intended as a fun wink and we have received an overwhelmingly positive response from our guests."

Some critics complained that the tees are shown in the juniors department and that the message is an inappropriate one to send to impressionable young women. Target didn't respond to that complaint. (On Target's website Wednesday morning the tee was shown as being available in juniors in sizes XSmall to XXLarge for $12.99 and in women's plus sizes for $14.99.)

While Target is only the latest retailer to come under fire for items that offend -- remember this this Memorial Day gaffe by PacSun? -- this controversy feels different. Why? Because there's no shortage of those who are blasting the critics for being too touchy and taking the T-shirt's message in the most negative way possible.

"Aren't we getting a little hypersensitive to things? I'd buy my wife a Trophy tee, she's an amazing woman," tweeted one man. You can see a sampling of the social media back and forth below. In the meantime: Do you find the shirt offensive, and if so, why?