A controversial trend in women's activewear has sharply divided public opinion across Australia, with some demanding the outfits be banned from public spaces. The garments in question are 'scrunch bum' shorts and tights, which feature a distinctive vertical seam designed to create a ruching effect and accentuate the wearer's figure.
The Backlash Against the Trend
The debate erupted on social media, where one Australian expressed strong disapproval on Facebook, writing: "Can we please go back to a time where the butt scrunch tights don't exist." The user argued the trend should be discarded, claiming the look was unflattering and gave an "everlasting wedgie effect." This initial post sparked a massive reaction, drawing in over 2,500 comments from critics of all genders.
Many commenters agreed, with one suggesting the look should be illegal in public, while another disparaged activewear worn by "the wrong person." The criticism was often graphic and personal, highlighting a deep-seated discomfort with the body-conscious style.
Defence and Support for Personal Choice
However, a significant number of people rushed to defend the fashion choice and the principle of personal freedom. "You know what else we should leave behind... judging people for what they wear," one woman countered angrily. Supporters praised the comfort and confidence the garments provide, with one stating they make "any bum look 100 per cent better."
The debate also saw male perspectives, with one man commenting that he thought the tights looked "fantastic on absolutely anyone" and expressed a wish for his wife to wear them. This highlighted that the division was not strictly along gender lines.
Celebrity Stylist Brands Criticism an "Overreaction"
Celebrity fashion stylist Donny Galea expressed shock at the intensity of the uproar. "I'm really surprised about the debate it's caused - it's crazy," he told the Daily Mail. He emphasised that the garments are simply a design feature, stating, "It's not as if they are naked."
Galea praised the tights for making women feel comfortable and flattering all body types. His blunt advice for critics was unequivocal: "Get a life, your personal insecurities shouldn't be pushed on others. Let everyone wear whatever they want to wear, and don't put others down."
The controversy has had real-world consequences. Brisbane podcaster Jasmine Absolom previously recounted being verbally assaulted in the street by an older woman who used abusive language and made outrageous claims about her outfit. Absolom was left "red with anger" by the encounter, stunned that another woman would speak in such a manner.
