Women working at the Bank of England, a public institution let’s remember, have been told that heels and makeup are mandatory.
A memo was sent around to all female employees, ahead of a ‘Dress for Success’ day.
“Look professional, not fashionable; be careful with perfume; always wear a heel of some sort — maximum 2 inches; always wear some sort of makeup — even if it’s just lipstick.” Shoes and skirt must be the same color. No-no’s include ankle chains — “professional, but not the one you want to be associated with;” white high heels; overstuffed handbags; an overload of rings, and double-pierced ears.
In the Guardian, Ruth Sutherland highlights the lack of women leaders at Davos:
The big theme at this year’s World Economic Forum (WEF) was “Shaping the Post-Crisis World”. The idea that that can be achieved while excluding half the population is breathtaking in its arrogance and shows that the male Davos elite remains mired in its own preening self-regard and complacency.
Sociological Images uncovers a particularly stark reminder of how women’s bodies are viewed as shameful:
As a fortuitous counterpoint, Melissa challeges us to name which part of our bodies we find the most beautiful:
“None” is not an acceptable answer. Go on and be radical and publicly love at least one part of your body!
