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Writer's pictureMy Little Flamingo

Breaking the Mold: Raising Confident Children in Gender-Stereotype-Free Clothing

In a world where pink is still for girls and blue is very much for boys, breaking free from gender stereotypes in children's clothing is like a breath of fresh air to most modern day parents. All we want is for our little ones to grow up confident, empowered, and unbound by the limitations of outdated societal norms. So, why should their clothing be any different?


Where have these so-called "norms" come from?


It seems that children's fashion is still heavily influenced by stereotypes that were formed way before even our own generation existed. Let's take colours - there are still very strong feelings about pink vs. blue. We see this as early as gender reveal parties, with expected parents cutting into coloured theme cakes, popping balloons with pink or blue confetti and even smashing baby themed pinatas with coloured sweets inside!!! It seems that we just can't break free of this idea that gender is defined by pink and blue, but where did it all start...


In the early 1900's, infant boys and girls were still wearing white dresses. It was not the norm to distinguish between the genders by dressing babies in gendered clothing, and certainly not by colour. But in 1905, a Times article stated "pink was for girls and blue for boys" and so the association began... Then in June 1918 in an issue of the Infants Department, it wrote, "There has been a great diversity of opinion on this subject, but the generally accepted rule is pink for the boy and blue for the girls. The reason is that pink being a more decided and stronger colour, is more suitable for the boy; while blue, which is more delicate and dainty is prettier for the girl." But in 1939, Parents Magazine contradicted this by reverting back to the original pink for girls and blue for boys ideal resulting in this dominating children's fashion by 1945.


This way of thinking is still prevalent today and has now expanded to include more gendered colours - you'll often see girls clothes in pretty pastels such as lilac, yellow and pale greens whereas boys clothes are often dark colours... navy, khaki, brown, black and grey! Boys were thought to play more outside making the darker colours the obvious choice for hiding the dirt, whereas the girls played indoors so as not to ruin their pretty pale clothes. But this way of thinking encourages children to behave in gendered ways, even if they aren't aware of it yet!


Unfortunately, these gender stereotypes have evolved and developed further over time into subtle messaging that sits on the edge of casual sexism.


Examples of sexist slogans on boys tops

SLOGANS:


Many slogans and words on t-shirts and tops regularly suggest that boys should be brave, adventurous, rebellious and clever, where girls' fashion communicates the idea that they should be cute, pretty and adorable. What messages are we sending our children when we allow the fashion industry to uphold such outdated conceptions of males and females? Words and phrases hold strong connotations and can create clear separations and expectations about how boys and girls should behave. Some are even scarily sexist and can worryingly dictate future behaviours and decisions.



Examples of sexist slogans on girls tops

CUT & FIT:


From t-shirts and shorts to even our children's underwear, there are obvious differences in cut and fit between boys and girls clothes? Boys clothes are often boxier, baggier and are usually made from thicker, better quality, more hard-wearing fabrics, whereas girls clothing features capped sleeves, cropped styles and items made from thinner, cheaper fabrics. And when it comes to style, garments made for boys are often designed to be comfortable and practical, implying that their behaviour is more play driven and physical. But for girls, garments are designed to be pretty with sequins, sparkles and additional trims, suggesting that girls are objects to be looked at. Large fashion retailers cut girls clothes smaller than boys, even when garments are labelled the exact same size. There is, in fact, no biological reason for this, as both boys and girls heights and weights show no significant differences until puberty. And these differences in cut and fit and even more disturbing when you look at children's underwear. Boys have options from thick elasticated briefs to boxer shorts - in a variety of fits from tight to baggy. And girls... pretty, pastel coloured, skimpy knickers with skinny elastic often adorned with lacey trims and bows!


THEMES:


When you think of boys clothing on the high street, which animal prints spring to mind? Tigers, sharks, wolves and dinosaurs seem to be a popular choice with fashion retailers. And for girls... unicorns, kittens, guinea-pigs and llamas always seem to pop up. Boys clothes often depict animals that are predators, and girls clothes display animals that are either prey or domesticated! Again, subtle gender messaging that communicates the idea that boys should be brave, fierce and masculine and girls should be weak, timid and cute. There is no problem with any of these animals being used as images and graphics on children's clothes. Where the problems arise is with the lack of equality and availability of such themes to everyone. If boys and girls had more choice about what they wore without the boundaries and restrictions of gender, which has been prescribed to them by fashion retailers, then perhaps we could start bridging the inequality gap.



But there is hope...


This isn't about creating genderless fashion for children. And it's definitely not about raising all children in a gender neutral way - it is still important for everyone to recognise that there are difference between males and females, but also, we're not confined by them. In my opinion, it's about making all fashion available and accessible to all children. Let's embrace a new era of inclusivity, where children are free to express themselves authentically, regardless of societal expectations. Say goodbye to "boys' clothes" and "girls' clothes"—it's time to welcome clothing that knows no bounds.



John Lewis became the first high street retailer in the UK to eliminate gender labelling in their own branded children's clothes in 2017. It also removed "boy" and "girl" sections in their stores as well as launching unisex clothing lines to appeal to all children.


Empowering Kids Through Style


By providing our children with a gender-stereotype-free wardrobe, we are empowering them to be their true selves from a young age. Let's teach our children that colours, patterns, and styles are not confined by gender but rather a form of creative expression. A pink top can be just as adventurous as a dinosaur-themed one, and a skirt can be as bold as cargo trousers. The key is to let our children explore and discover their unique sense of style without limitations.


The Impact of Gender-Neutral Clothing


Gender-neutral clothing goes beyond just fashion—it reflects a mindset of openness and acceptance. By opting for gender-stereotype-free clothing, we are actively challenging societal norms and promoting a more inclusive world. Our children learn that there are no boundaries to what they can wear, which paves the way for a future where individuality is celebrated.


Practical Tips for Building a Gender-Stereotype-Free Wardrobe


  • Shop Across Sections : Don't limit yourself to the "boys" or "girls" section. Explore both areas to find pieces that resonate with your child's style.

  • Focus on Comfort : Let your child's comfort be the priority. Whether it's soft fabrics, loose fits, or vibrant colours, choose clothing that allows them to move freely.

  • Encourage Choice : Involve your child in the shopping process. Let them pick out pieces that speak to them and make them feel confident.

  • Mix and Match : Embrace versatility by mixing traditionally gendered items. Pair a floral top with cargo shorts or a graphic tee with a tutu skirt—the options are endless.


Fashion Freedom for All


As parents, it's our responsibility to guide our children towards a future where self-expression knows no bounds. By embracing gender-stereotype-free clothing, we are not only shaping their sense of style but also instilling values of acceptance and individuality. Let's break the mold, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive and confident generation.


So, here's to raising kids who are fearless, authentic, and unapologetically themselves—one outfit at a time.


Remember, fashion has no rules—only endless possibilities!

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