TikTok influencer Allegra Pinkowitz loses Brandy Melville job amid summer layoffs

Allegra Pinkowitz, a high-school junior who has built a TikTok following of more than 162,000 fans, was abruptly let go from her part-time position at Brandy Melville’s flagship SoHo location after almost two and a half years on the job. A male manager called her on Thursday, explaining that the company’s summer sales fell short of expectations, prompting a wave of layoffs and offering to keep her contact for possible future re-hire.

Pinkowitz posted a video the same day, describing the decision as “extremely unexpected” and saying the cut stings because she has consistently spoken favorably about the brand online. She reassured followers that she holds no ill will toward Brandy Melville and is now looking for another role. The brand, known for its one-size-fits-most model and heavy reliance on social-media marketing, reported $283 million in sales in 2025 with steady double-digit growth, yet it continues to face criticism over its sizing policies and staffing practices. Pinkowitz’s firing comes amid broader scrutiny following one outlet's investigation and an HBO Max documentary that featured her discussing body-image pressures at the retailer.