Society has long debated the connection between a woman’s attire and the challenges she faces. Some argue that the way a woman dresses invites certain behaviors, but history itself disproves this notion. The problem is not the clothing—it is the way people think.
Take the great epics, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, for example. Draupadi, dressed traditionally and modestly, was humiliated in an open court. Her attire was not a provocation; it was the egos of the Kauravas that led to the infamous incident of vastra haran. Lord Krishna himself had to intervene to protect her honor, while many men stood silent. If clothing were the cause, why did this happen in a hall full of men?
Similarly, in the Ramayana, Mata Sita was abducted by Ravana, despite her traditional and modest clothing. Ravana’s desire to possess her had nothing to do with how she dressed; it was his own thoughts, arrogance, and inability to respect a woman’s autonomy that led to his downfall.
A Woman’s Dress is Not the Problem—The Mindset Is
History and mythology make it clear: the issue is not attire but mindset. If a person blames a woman’s dress for inappropriate behavior, they reveal their own immaturity. Blaming victims instead of addressing the root cause—how people perceive and respect women—is both regressive and unjust.
In today's world, where education and awareness are more widespread than ever, perspectives need to evolve. Instead of policing women’s clothing, society must focus on teaching respect, boundaries, and ethical behavior. A word has the power to change or destroy—so let’s choose wisely when we speak about such issues.
For too long, women’s clothing has been unfairly scrutinized, controlled, and judged. Whether it’s the idea that women must dress a certain way to be “respectable” or the expectation that fashion should always prioritize appearance over comfort, it’s time for a shift in mindset.
Here’s what needs to change:
1. Choice Over Judgment – A woman’s outfit should not determine her character, values, or competence. Clothing is an expression of individuality, not an invitation for criticism or control.
2. Function Over Trends – Many women’s clothes prioritize style over practicality. We need more pockets, more comfortable fits, and designs that suit real-world needs rather than just aesthetics.
3. Beyond Gender Norms – Fashion should not be restricted by outdated ideas of femininity. Women should feel free to wear what makes them feel powerful, confident, and comfortable—whether that’s a suit, a dress, or anything in between.
4. No More Policing – Society often tells women what they can or cannot wear based on their age, body type, or setting. Instead of imposing limits, we should support personal choice and self-expression.
5. Respect in All Attire – Whether a woman wears a hijab, a crop top, a sari, or a suit, she deserves the same respect and dignity. Clothing should never be a reason for discrimination or harassment.
Shifting our perspective on women’s clothing means recognizing that fashion is about choice, comfort, and confidence—not control or conformity. Let’s embrace a world where what a woman wears is simply her decision, free from outdated expectations.
It’s time to stop shifting the blame onto women and start holding the real culprits accountable. The way forward is not controlling how women dress, but changing how society thinks.
— written by Anonymous L