By the time my daughter was a year old, I found myself gravitating towards the boys’ clothing section. As she became more active, crawling, running, and exploring, I sought clothes that mirrored the functionality of my son’s wardrobe. Durable pants with reinforced knees for inevitable tumbles, and pockets deep enough to hold treasures collected on playground adventures. Sturdy shirts offering sun protection and concealing grass stains and food spills were essential.
Instead, girls’ clothing sections overflowed with delicate leggings, revealing tops, and embellished footwear. My search for girls’ pants featuring ample pockets and reinforced knees proved frustratingly fruitless.
I eventually recognized a disheartening pattern: even in an era celebrating female empowerment, boys’ clothing prioritized practicality while girls’ clothing emphasized aesthetics. This realization shifted my shopping habits; the boys’ section became my first stop. My concern extended beyond protecting her knees. I wanted to shield her from the subtle yet discouraging message embedded in girls’ clothing: your purpose is to be adorned, not to actively participate.
Some might dismiss my perspective as an overreaction to clothing choices. However, clothing carries significance beyond personal expression. Extensive research demonstrates that attire influences both external perceptions and self-perception.
A 2012 study conducted by Kenyon College researchers revealed that adults perceived fifth-grade girls in more sexualized clothing as less intelligent and capable compared to their peers in more modest attire. Another study, published in the journal Social Behavior and Personality, indicated that ballerinas wearing form-fitting attire experienced negative body image and performance anxieties compared to those in looser clothing. This suggests that clothing choices can impact a young girl’s self-esteem and confidence. While fashion trends evolve, the need for practical and empowering clothing options for girls remains constant. Perhaps 2018 marked a turning point in recognizing the importance of functional fashion for young girls.
