Since when do women need permission for anything?
Have you ever come across a phrase that makes you do a double take, only to confirm that you really did read it correctly? That was my reaction when I walked past a boutique in my hometown in Minnesota. The women-owned establishment, Giggle Gals, targets suburban moms and offers a range of clothing, jewelry, and home décor. In the window, a sign in bold letters caught my eye: “Your husband called, he said buy what you want.”
Excuse me?
Did that sign just suggest that I need to consult my husband before treating myself to a little something? Should I pause from preparing his dinner or folding his laundry to check if I can buy this new bath bomb? Did we somehow take a detour back to the 1950s that I wasn’t aware of?
I tried to think of a way the store owner meant this sign to be humorous or lighthearted, but it really misses the mark. The message implies that women are incapable of making financial decisions without their husbands’ approval. Last I checked, women are dynamic, hardworking multitaskers. Many women are the primary earners in their households, balancing work, meals, doctor’s appointments, and after-school activities. They run marathons, volunteer for charities, and organize school events. They juggle full-time jobs, whether in or out of the home, and still find time to engage in community activities like coaching sports teams and participating in the PTO.
When it comes to shopping, they certainly don’t need to ask for permission.
Today, women earn the majority of college degrees in the U.S., whether associates, bachelors, masters, or doctorates. We comprise almost half of the American workforce and own close to ten million businesses, including this one. Around 70 percent of mothers with children under 18—those you aim to serve in your store—are part of the workforce, with over 75 percent working full-time. The result? Stronger families and a more robust economy for everyone.
This sign is offensive to women everywhere, suggesting we require our husbands’ approval before making decisions. This regressive thinking drags us back about 60 years.
Of course, couples often make significant purchases together, but the notion that women need to check in before buying something for themselves is absurd. We are capable adults with our own minds, wallets, and considerable buying power.
We’ve got this. No permission needed.
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Summary: This article critiques a clothing store sign that suggests women need their husband’s approval for purchases, arguing that such a notion is outdated and offensive. Women today are independent, capable, and don’t require permission to make their own financial decisions.