An airline spokesman said that the girls were traveling under an employee travel pass that includes a dress code. The move sparked a wave of online criticism against United. Comedian Sarah Silverman tweeted that she would change her United flight bookings to other airlines

for a tour next month because of the leggings issue. Chicago-based United sought to clarify its stance in a post on its website late Sunday titled, "To our customers ... your leggings are welcome!" The post said employees are "regularly reminded" about its dress code.