Great article and comments here! When I was growing up I chose my clothing based on my need to run, jump, tussle with, and be safe from boys trying to lift skirts. I, and all my girlfriends wore shorts under our dresses EVERY SINGLE DAY. I refused to carry a purse because it was something a boy could take away and I was having none of that shit. Purses still create a vulnerability that I avoid for the most part. When I look back it was so wrong and combative. We were constantly fighting to keep our clothing in place. Don’t feel sorry for me. My girlfriends and I kicked a lot of butt and never backed down. No one taught 3rd, 4th, 5th or 6th grade self defense. But I learned a lot fighting with my 1 year older brother at home. At one point I was taller than him, which was heavenly in so many ways. Lol

On another not, I realized years ago that girls’ and women’s clothing tries to force them to look smaller, where boys’ and men’s clothing tries to force them to look bigger. It’s wrong both ways. It’s all so costume like and based on illusion. I especially laugh at women’s T-shirts with little cap sleeves that make most women’s upper arms look bigger than in reality. And Men’s T-shirts make a more streamlined look. If men want their arms to look bigger shouldn’t they be wearing cap sleeve T-shirts? Cross the aisle men. There’s plenty to choose from.