Group net revenue was also up 10% year on year to $1.2bn (£890.2m) during the quarter.
The group’s intimate apparel brand Aerie achieved record first quarter revenue, up 25% to $480.8m (£3565m). However, at the American Eagle brand, revenues were down 2.1% to $678.5m (£503.7m).
Revenues at across the group’s “other” segment – which includes Aerie’s activewear diffusion line Offline by Aerie, premium menswear brand Todd Snyder and conscious fashion brand Unsubscribed – was also down 18.2% to $36m (£26.7m).
Gross profit topped $456.2m (£338.6m), up 41% year on year, while gross margin reached 38.2%, an increase of 860 basis points compared with the same period last year.
American Eagle expects operating profit of between $390m (£289.5) and $410m (£304.3m) for fiscal 2026.
Jay Schottenstein, American Eagle Outfitters executive chairman and chief executive officer, said: “We entered 2026 with strong momentum, delivering double-digit top-line growth and operating income ahead of guidance.
“This quarter reflected the strength of our portfolio and the power of Aerie. Driven by compelling product assortments and a deep emotional connection with customers, the brand achieved exceptional multi-channel growth and profitability, further amplified by the continued relevance of the ‘100% Aerie REAL’ campaign. While results at American Eagle were mixed, our teams are moving decisively to reignite the women’s business and strengthen product execution and brand positioning.
“Looking ahead, our priorities are clear. Despite continued consumer and macroeconomic uncertainty, we remain confident in our ability to navigate near-term headwinds. We are focused on operational excellence and disciplined execution to drive long-term value for AEO [American Eagle Outfitters] and our shareholders.”