The disparities and inequalities between men and women have been a significant topic of discussion for centuries, and this issue continues to be highly relevant today.
Recently, a female landscaper from Sydney, Australia, sparked a lively conversation on social media by highlighting what she perceives as a glaring double standard in the workplace: why is it acceptable for men to work shirtless in the heat while women are not afforded the same freedom?
“It’s a scorching 40-degree day today…”
We all understand how challenging it can be to work outdoors when the sun is blazing and the heat is unyielding. If you’ve ever had to endure a sweltering day on a job site or while working on the road, you know exactly what I mean.
During my childhood, it was quite common to see road and construction workers going shirtless on hot days. While it may not be as prevalent now, I still occasionally spot men laboring with sunburned shoulders and no shirts.
Shianne Fox, an Australian tradeswoman known as “The Bikini Tradie” on social media, took to TikTok to express her frustration after being told she couldn’t take off her shirt while working outside on a blistering 104°F (40°C) day.
It’s a scorching 40-degree day today, and here I am, stuck wearing my shirt while all the guys on-site are shirtless, she vented, adding:
“It’s totally unfair, it’s sexist, and I’m really fed up with it. I just want to be able to go topless like the guys, but apparently, I’ll just ‘distract them.’”
Fox, who often opts for a bikini top to cope with the heat, expressed that she’s simply seeking equal treatment, just like her male colleagues in the trades.
Is this a fight for gender equality or going too far?
Having spent over four years in male-dominated trades, Fox usually works in a bikini and feels confident in her own skin, insisting that her request is perfectly reasonable.
She argued that being topless shouldn’t be seen as “distracting” since it’s a “natural thing.” However, some critics noted that societal norms and workplace standards are in place for a reason, emphasizing that professionalism should come before personal comfort.
It was an incredibly hot day, and naturally, many of the guys in the industry had their shirts off. I figured it was only fair for me to do the same. I have no problem showing off my breasts.
“I don’t see why it should be considered ‘distracting’ because, in the end, they’re just a natural part of life. We all have breasts; it’s completely normal. If someone finds it distracting and acts immature about it, they really need to grow up,” she shared with News.au.com.
Fox, who also creates content for an adult site, acknowledges that her views might be seen as controversial, but she hopes that by speaking out, she can inspire more women to enter the trades.
“I thought that by putting myself out there, I could encourage other women to join the industry,” she explained.
Reactions from other women
However, not all female tradespeople support her. Many women in the field believe that her social media activity, including clips of her working in a bikini top, undermines their professionalism.
One female tradeswoman remarked:
“She doesn’t represent us female tradies.”
Another added:
“She makes genuine female tradies look bad.”
Fox’s video sparked a flurry of comments, with many men expressing their support for her viewpoint.
“Absolutely agree—show off the assets and forget about the guys,” one commenter stated.
“I doubt anyone would mind, miss,” another chimed in.
However, not everyone was on board:
“Isn’t there air conditioning in the kitchen?” one critic remarked.
The broader context
As the discussion around Fox’s video continues, it’s important to note that women are still significantly underrepresented in blue-collar professions.
A 2023 Deloitte survey highlighted a striking 12:1 ratio of men to women in trade jobs. Given this substantial gender disparity, Fox’s viral moment prompts a crucial question: Should women be advocating for topless equality, or is the more pressing issue breaking into male-dominated fields in the first place?
Ms. Foxx expressed her enjoyment of working in male-dominated fields, despite the gender disparity.
“Many people mention catcalling, but that’s not my experience at all,” she shared.
“In my view, if you walk in confidently and don’t let men intimidate you, you can hold your own.
“Stand firm, and they won’t bother you.”
What are your thoughts? Should women have the same rights to go topless as men, or is that going too far? Share your opinions in the comments!