I’m a bit chubby, and some even call me “curvy.” I love crop tops, but my family doesn’t want me to wear them at all. They say things like, “It doesn’t suit you, it will attract attention, you’re not fit for that body.” Should I wear what I want or do what they say? What do you think I should do? Is there anyone else in the same situation?
I really struggled with this in the past. I was a bit chubby during my teenage years, and when I said I wanted to wear a crop top, my mom seriously had a meltdown. The whole “what will the neighbors say” thing was drilled into me a hundred times. But at 23, I wore one for the first time, pairing it with high-waisted pants that didn’t show too much of my belly. Now, no one is saying anything, they’re getting used to it. I think you should try it too; their fear is just like a little backlash.
I’m noticing that judgments like ‘not suitable for a woman’s body, it would be shameful’ are always being applied. But the issue is your own freedom. Rest assured, if your brother wanted to wear shorts, they wouldn’t be so hard on him. I think you should wear what you want. You don’t have to live under societal or family pressure; it’s your body.
Actually, such situations happen quite often. Most families seem to try to protect a bit with the phrase ‘it draws attention’, but you don’t realize that in the moment. But let me tell you, cropping and stuff has become so commonplace that nobody even looks back anymore. I think they will ease off a bit, as long as you calmly explain the situation.
Family elders usually don’t speak without reason. Perhaps they have valid observations. To be honest, I’m not very fond of dressing en masse; we also need to pay attention to our surroundings. Not everyone has to wear the same thing; you can find different tastes.
Actually, wearing crop tops in the fashion world has little to do with physical suitability. Especially with the right combination, it can be adapted to every body type. You can achieve both comfort and a covered look with high-waisted pants or slightly oversized jackets. Try creating a style that will ease your family’s concerns a bit.
Thank you all, your comments made me think a lot. I wanted to add this: My dad isn’t too picky about these kinds of things either. The real issue is that my mom made a fuss when I went out in a really short pair of shorts once. It’s like she’s acting as if the neighbors are watching me. I’m not sure if I can ever change her mind.
I feel like there’s a fear from your family’s past here. Maybe an event happened nearby or someone was criticized for that reason. Usually, there’s something behind such warnings like ‘don’t wear that, it draws attention.’ Talk to your mom again, maybe she will open up.
Yeah, we have constant discussions about crop tops at home too. I’m in university, I wear them when I leave the dorm, but when I go home, I’m fully covered. Honestly, I do my own thing without letting my family know too much. So, I think you should find a balance as well. Try to find a common outfit with your mom occasionally, but feel free to express yourself outside.