A few weeks back, I joined two mom friends on a swimsuit shopping trip with our five daughters, whose ages ranged from 10 to 17. We headed to a local store that was having a significant sale, as all the girls had outgrown their swimsuits from the previous summer.
I’m proud to say that our daughters maintain healthy and positive body images. They share a strong aversion to the stereotypical “girly” items that are often marketed to them, along with a deep frustration at how society tends to objectify their bodies. As their primary female role model, I strive to convey to them that they are so much more than their physical appearance. I’ve taught them that their bodies are tools meant for strength and health, without a need to conform to specific beauty standards. We often discuss the messages we send through our body language and clothing choices.
Instead of adhering to the outdated notion that they must cover up because of how boys might react, I encourage my daughters to express themselves and prioritize their comfort when selecting outfits. We view clothing choices as personal decisions free from judgment, while also preparing them for the societal reactions that may come with various styles.
In the swimsuit aisle, we encountered racks filled with girls’ and juniors’ swimsuits that were predominantly pink, sparkly, and cut in a way that mimicked adult women’s styles. The girls were unimpressed, expressing their dissatisfaction that the available options did not align with what they desired.
They were looking for two-piece options that would allow for bathroom breaks with ease but also wanted coverage to minimize the amount of sunscreen needed. My daughter even reminisced about a painful sunburn from last year when her swimsuit didn’t stay in place while tubing. They wanted suits that allowed them to run, jump, and play without the constant worry of wardrobe malfunctions, and they were eager for colors beyond the typical pink.
While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with pink and sparkly swimwear, it simply wasn’t what they wanted. Finally, one of the girls suggested, “Why can’t we just wear board shorts and sun shirts like the boys do?” This sparked a realization — why not indeed?
Excitedly, they dashed over to the boys’ department. The younger girls found matching rash guards and swim shorts adorned with sharks, while the older ones discovered vibrant turquoise and lime green patterns that suited their tastes perfectly. They were thrilled with their choices.
As mothers, we were impressed with their ability to think creatively and reject the marketing schemes that had been imposed on them. There was one minor hiccup they quickly recognized — the issue of needing a swim top underneath a sun shirt to avoid any unexpected flashing when jumping into a pool. They decided that a sports bra would solve that problem. Although I knew other stores offered sun shirts and swim shorts for girls in colors other than pink and sparkly, the girls were happy with their finds. Why change something that made them feel good?
This experience highlighted a fascinating clash between personal preference and the societal expectations dictated by the fashion industry. Many of us have stood in front of a mirror, questioning the practicality of certain styles that seem to have been designed with little thought to comfort. While some may embrace ultra low-rise jeans, I’ve found them impractical and unflattering.
It’s vital for women to wear what resonates with them, but we must also be conscious of the influences that shape those decisions. Whether it’s a bikini, one-piece, or attire from the boys’ section, the choice should rest solely with the individual.
Though the girls may not have fully grasped the impact of their shopping choices that day, I certainly did. These young women boldly selected what felt right for them, unfazed by societal expectations or marketing pressures. As a mother and a woman, I felt immense pride in their decision.
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In summary, the experience of our daughters choosing swimwear from the boys’ section is a powerful reminder of the importance of individuality and self-expression in the face of societal standards.