Lately, there has been some hubbub about young women wearing Nike shorts and leggings way too often. I came across an article called "Ladies, Nike Shorts And Leggings Are For The Gym, Nowhere Else". I couldn't have avoided it because it attracted many readers and viewers, and it was popular on the Web. I've realized that this was a big issue and many people, especially girls, were extremely offended by it.
Guess what? I'm actually one of those girls.
This article explained how, as growing women, we must dress appropriately every day. Wearing professional clothing is a must so we can succeed in our days to come, not just for our future careers. Yeah, okay, sure. But what caught my eye was the ignorant bashing against wearing anything BUT men's oxfords and business suits, with the occasional praise of denim jeans.
This article also contained multiple complaints about Nike shorts, leggings, and more. According to the creator who wrote this, clothes like that will not get you anywhere far. Wearing "ratty" scraps of clothing is only meant for the gym and exercising. You are not allowed to go to class or a school event wearing them. Even walking on the street or through a store in the mall would be frowned upon for girls like us.
I'm appalled, and by reading the comments at the foot of that article, I can clearly understand why. Who would have the audacity to say that? There are athletes who just choose to wear Nike shorts because they want to, not because they play a bunch of sports. Would you call them lazy?
There are students who dress up when they feel like it, and there are students who absolutely love a good pair of sweatpants or leggings to throw on and wear. As for me? My wardrobe is full of jeans but, my God, do I love my cozy leggings and Nike shorts that I don't wear to the gym.
This author's idea will not, and never will, dictate how someone dresses or lives their life. That's just wrong and uncalled for.
I love Nike shorts because they are comfortable. I love leggings because they are cozy and warm on a chilly, rainy day. Nike shorts are flexible and don't bother me too much. Did you know that leggings look super cute with tall boots and an extra large sweater?
Nike shorts and leggings aren't the only things under fire. The author also bashes on white Converse sneakers, saying they're seen only at frat parties. Leave it alone, love. Who gives a crap?
Chuck Taylors are very trendy and hip, and it's in the now. They've been "a thing" for multiple decades. Many girls AND guys love showing them off. I own two pairs of Converse, one of them being the white high tops, and I am not ashamed. I am also not a girl who attends frat parties, and those who know me can totally back me up on that. That's just giving a bad name for a cute pair of sneakers. Stop creating stereotypes.
What if I just want to wear these things, I don't know... because I'm free to do whatever I want? Just because I go to class wearing gym attire doesn't mean I'm lazy and careless. What if I came from the gym? What if I had planned to go to the gym after my class?
And yes, sometimes I just want to wear Nike shorts on a rest day because I just simply want to! Plus, it's not nice to assume other women's life stories. How do you know if they have "a lot going on right now"? What does that have to do with their choice of clothing? Someone's life or intelligence does not relate to clothing, nor will it ever.
I'd also like to add that periods are uncomfortable and you do feel crappy for a week, but it's absurd to have someone tell you to grow up from that. It can hurt sometimes. I don't know about you, ladies, but I want to just chill in baggy sweatpants or leggings, not jeans. Jeans can be uncomfortable during that time, and that's just nature. You can't mess with nature; give it a break.
Obviously, I'm on a rant because this recent "controversy" has grabbed my attention, and I developed a strong opinion about it real quick. I just don't understand how someone can force others to dress the way that person is comfortable with. No, I hate dressing up in pantsuits and putting my hair up in a tight bun. But it's going to happen eventually. Right now, let me wear what I feel good in, please. I want to wear ripped (or what some may call "ratty") jean shorts or Nike gym shorts or black leggings without getting judged. I know for a fact that nobody else would want that.
So, ladies, wear whatever the heck you want. After all, you are your own person. Whatever you feel good in is what you should wear. If you want to rock that extra large shirt and Nike shorts, feel free. If you want to show off that messy bun with those leggings and boots, be my guest. You're all beautiful in your own unique way, and nobody is allowed to tell you otherwise.
Feel beautiful every day; just save the leggings for all the days of the week, even the lazy days.