Before I get into this column, I would just like to state that I am a red-blooded heterosexual male. That being said, death be to the public display of leggings.
I know guys, I just lost a bunch of you right now as you come up with a slew of names to call me and to bash my opinion. You just love to ogle the girls who pass you by on campus with their buttocks displayed ever-so-clearly behind the tight fabric of spandex leggings. Come on dude, grow up.
We all learned in some grade school health class that guys and girls have different bodies and we are naturally attracted to each other, but do we really need to check out every "cute butt" that walks by? Note: leggings do not make the butt cute. If you don't "got it," don't think leggings are going to make up for it.
But really. Are leggings, or their "upscale friend" jeggings, really a necessity to be worn in public?
Now I know I have our female readers up in arms. Yes ladies, I understand that your leggings may be comfortable when you don't especially feel the need to dress up. You love how easy it is to go with your outfit and you may even "keep it classy" with your long shirt.
I've heard about the "half cover" rule, the "full cover" rule, and every other rationalization in the book. Truth of the matter is that if you move one way or another, you know full well that any guy to be walking behind you will be enjoying an eyeful.
Girls, draw the comparison with guys. Let's be honest, for the greater majority of UB, you do not want to be seeing dudes in tight fitting bottoms. Guys and spandex are never a good match.
If you want to wear leggings, fine. Just wear them at home when having a movie night with your gal pals. Like pajama pants and bathrobes, leggings have no place outside of the house. Break out your comfy sweatpants or, heaven forbid, wear a pair of jeans. I'd much rather see a girl be comfortable and confident without having to turn to the tight, show-it-all article of clothing.
If you want to wear leggings out, wear them for their intended purpose. Add some flair to a skirt or keep your legs warm if you're having a classy night out in a dress. Feel free to be funky and wear them under a pair of shorts. Throwing a shirt on to "cover up" does not magically act as a substitute for just this side of public nudity.
The only situation that may be worse than leggings being worn as an acceptable substitute for pants would be the ever-popular combination of leggings, shirts, and Ugg boots. The combination not only epitomizes the laziness, but when girls then loudly exclaim, "it's so cold out," it takes every fiber of my being not to smack them upside the head and tell them to actually put some clothes on.
If you're going out in public girls, just put on some clothes. There are plenty of ways to go out and still look good without baring it all for the world to see. If you're enjoying the attention that guys give you, put on a real outfit and see how much attention you get. Sure, the numbers may decrease, but the quality of guys you begin to meet will skyrocket.
Email: steven.wrobel@ubspectrum.com
