An inner and societal reflection
Let’s be real, the men and women of today are chameleons. In a way, we are always changing our clothing to adapt to new environments. This can be compared to how a chameleon’s colour changes to match its surroundings as a survival mechanism. We adapt to the norm of the environments we experience. It may be a work meeting, religious setting, after-hours events, family dinner, dance competition, etc.
The way we dress is an expression and an extension of ourselves. It may also be a representation of our belonging to a certain group of people.
Recent media has started to claim their own views of beauty, mainly for women. Despite having suggestive lyrics in the song, Drake’s 2009 release of “Best I Ever Had,” states, “Sweat pants, hair tied, chillin’ with no makeup on, that’s when you’re the prettiest I hope you don’t take it wrong.”
Maroon 5’s current single, “Until You’re Over Me,” states, “You’re so much better without makeup. Why would you ever hide your face? Don’t want to spend the night and realize I’ve made a mistake.”
According to a recent publication by The Guelph Mercury, Centennial C.V.I. is caught in an uproar with a recent comment made by the school’s principal.
The principal of Centennial C.V.I., Scott Bishop used a demeaning subjective word to classify the way that female students were allegedly dressing. He said, “Women should dress scholarly not ‘skanky.’ Why not just say professional or trendy, not use language that would degrade the female population? Contrary to his statement, men can also break school dress codes.
“Slut” shaming and using subjective, demeaning grammar to classify woman confuses the students that you hope to grow up to be role models who live harmoniously with one another.
All of those poster campaigns call for and end to bullying, stopping self-harm, and creating an environment based on an empire of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Where does Bishop’s platform stand?
In a school environment that encompasses a multi-ethnic, multi-faith, gender-diverse environment, is there a possibility of misinterpreting personal belief?
A dancer is someone who is often questioned about his or her costume. If you come from a western style of dance, they will be seen with their legs, arms, and midriff exposed to some extent. Not only is the costume created to entertain audiences, while showing off a dancer’s technique and strength, but it is created according to a cultural view and to open the range of the body movements. This means that if the person is moving their legs in a clockwise motion to help extend their mobility, sexualization is an interpretation of the people watching. Underneath society’s views of how men and women should dress, we also encompass our own standards of beauty.
Reality TV star and drag queen RuPaul said, “If you don’t love yourself, how else are you going to love anyone else?”
Self-love is incredibly important, even during times when people say things that you do not agree with. This could include anything that defines your personal choices.
During the summer, wear what you want that is comfortable to your essence and that suits where you are going. Live peacefully as it is a fundamental human right. Feel confident in the choice of your clothing, as it is an extension of your self-love. Be you, full of life.