I was looking at Halloween costumes the other day and I was apalled at something I saw. Although, I think I know what the girls are going to wear to Boo in the Zoo - I thought I would look and see what was cute this year. Well, as I was looking, I saw that they had a French Maid costume - yeah, exactly what you are thinking, short little black dress, fishnet hose, etc. And this particular costume had 3 different sizes, 4-6 years, 8-10 years, and 12-14 years. I couldn't believe it --- would someone actually dress up their little girls in that? Then as I was looking online at Wal Mart, I came across another --- this one said it was only available in teen sizes, but this was the description that they added to it
"This Handy Candy Teen Nurse costume will start the boy's hearts beating on Halloween. ...." Yeah, that's what teenage boys need - help starting their "hearts beating". And although I won't post a link or the picture of it - it is as bad as it sounds. Its frustrating to look around and realize how much the world, stores, etc. sexualize our girls. And why parents allow it (they must be buying the clothes) is beyond me. Both my girls are still very young - but even Isabella is coming close to the age where clothes may be harder to find that are cute, yeah a little trendy, but LITTLE girly. I've been amazed at the clothes I have seen in sizes as small as 3T. Then I had read other mothers were concerned about it here: (Click on the picture if you want to go there)
**Ok - I could finally get it to work on my sidebar - scan down and you will see the picture with the link. Never could get it to work on this post, go figure, blogger can be so irritating at times. And I liked what they said:
Moms for Modesty Mission Statement
As a Mom for Modesty I believe in common-sense modesty for girls and young women.
I believe in refraining from sexualizing our girls and young women.
I believe that it is unwise and unfair to taunt boys and young men by permitting my daughter(s) to dress in an immodest manner.
I believe that true beauty comes from within and I strive to teach my daughter(s) this truth.
I will loyally shop at retailers that provide girls' and young womens clothing that is modest, affordable and stylish.
So, in conclusion-- to my dad and my husband, this is yet another reason that my mom and I should be justified in shopping at Gymboree. :) And if my daughters as they get older even think of asking to wear a costume like the one I've described above - This (link below) is going to be the one I buy them instead. :)
http://costumezone.com/item.asp?cID=208&scID=232&PID=8173.
9 comments:
Oh my, that is terrible. I had no idea things had gotten that bad! =( The Modesty Mission Statement is fantastic. True beauty does come from within and the earlier we communicate that to young girls, the better. Makes me think of that Dove Soap commercial that I love so much (True Colors).
I've seen that french maid costume too and couldn't believe it! Disgusting what they are making for little girls nowadays!
Here's a link to that commercial I was talking about. I think that giving little girls attention for wearing things like a french maid's outfit, a sexy nurses uniform, etc. is so damaging to their self esteem. I use that term very carefully. While on one hand, I understand God says we are not to esteem ourselves in pride and self centeredness, the Bible also says that we are created in the image of God for a purpose. I want all girls to grow up understanding that truth.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1731400614466797113
I love the costume you picked out. And I totally agree on the clothes thing. Samie is already in teen clothes and trying to find jeans that aren't too low riders. It has been impossible to find just regular jeans. And shirts that don't fit tight. Or pants that have princess wrote on the butt. Not to mention dresses that are not decent enough to wear to bed much less to church.
Thanks for blowing Krissy's Christmas present. I totally got her the whoopie cushion costume! Kris, I want to see it on you for our family's Christmas party.
Yeah I agree that it is becoming increasingly difficult to shop for little girls. Thankfully you know how to sew. -not all mommies can sew like you. This mommy knows how to safety pin, glue and duck tape but I certainly don't sew. You are so talented!
I believe this is just one more great reason for teaching our girls the "value of vintage"-- they don't make the clothes like they used to- so go back to a time when folks were sensible and in the process, give your monies to folks who are more deserving of your patronage ( ie; Goodwill, Thrift Shops connected to a charity)
Even if you go to the really chic and trendy vintage shops, you are getting far more flesh coverage for your buck ( and jeans like they used to make :)
Just a thought...
I like your thoughts, Kelly!
Sorry, Beck, but I was planning on wearing the French Maid's costume at the Christmas party. . .
Seriously, Kelly, I really appreciated your comments as well. It's great to have this forum for sharing ideas because we can glean so much from others' wisdom.
Thanks for bringing up this topic, Deanna!
You know, that's interesting. I'm out shopping for a little boy so I don't notice it as much, but if I ever am blessed with a daughter, you can bet she won't be wearing a French maid outfit for Halloween!
Snuggle Bug is going to be Tigger this year. I'll post pictures that day.
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