As summer approaches, temperatures rise and outfits become lighter for both men and women. But for the latter, the choice of an outfit can also have consequences for their own safety on public transport. While crop tops, low necklines and bare backs find favor in dressing rooms, prevention videos are flourishing on TikTok. Several women there recommend wearing a “subway” t-shirt or shirt. A tool that would prevent flirting attempts or sexist comments.
“Don’t Become a Target”
In her video, viewed by more than 700,000 people, we see the young woman making herself comfortable in a cafe before unbuttoning and removing a large white shirt. Beneath her garment, Rae wears a black top that covers much less of her, exposing part of her torso, chest, or stomach.
And the technique resonated with many viewers. In the comments, some even refer to the garment as a “fashion safety layer.”
By covering their bodies, women defuse unwanted stares or interactions with men before they even occur. On TikTok, the “subway clothing” trend is gaining momentum with over 4.6 million views.
Raise awareness about the harm of bullying
The phenomenon appears to be localized to New York City. However, the metropolis is reputed to be one of the safest in the United States. But New York Times found that violent crime rates on the subway have been on the rise since 2019.
A February study showed that 41% of city women avoid public transport whenever possible. Of these, almost half believe they do so out of safety concerns. A phenomenon that can be found in many large cities, starting with Paris.
She hopes these videos make more internet users realize “how scary it can be to just go about your business, including taking the subway, when you present yourself as a feminine person.”
Source: BFM TV
