Being a writer for Her Campus, I am a huge proponent of giving women a platform to come together, discuss, and share in this common experience of being collegiettes. However, I’ve become rather sick and tired of the rampant sexism I’ve been witnessing lately, and feel it’s time to speak up. Miss Representation has created the hashtag #notbuyingit to stand up against some of this wildly gender-stereotyped advertising. So here are just a few of the offenses that I feel deserve the hashtag…
Perfume Ads
Am I not allowed to wear perfume unless I’m riding on horseback, rolling in a bed of flowers, or emerging from the ocean in a skimpy bikini? What if I just want to wear it to class?
Bic Pens For Her
Because using every other pen was just too hard. See snarky reviews here.
The Bachelor
Confidence and independence will get you far. But throwing yourself at a man bikini-clad, with far too much makeup, and playing dumb to attain “real love” in just a few weeks will get you further.
Go Daddy Superbowl Commercial
You can’t be sexy and smart silly girl. Smart is for the boys. Sexy is for the girls who make out with the smart boys to get the money. Now you’re learning.
Playtex Fresh + Sexy Wipes
Because the normal vagina is supposed to smell like a sterile operating table. And who even says I want to find more wood? Maybe my beaver is on a wood-free diet thank you very much.
Halloween Costumes
Miranda said it best, why are my only options witch and sexy kitten? What if I want to be a damn superhero and not a sexy or slutty one? Do they have a “just because I’m a girl doesn’t mean I want to stress like a skank on October 31st” aisle at the Halloween store?
Critiquing Women in Politics
If we spent as long going over what Obama chose to wear or Joe Biden’s shoe choices as we do talking about Michelle Obama’s new haircut or Hillary Clinton’s fashion choices, the world would be a much dumber place. Can we get over their style already and move on to talking about the real stuff?
Hitting on Guys
Why is it that when you buy me a drink at the bar you’re chivalrous, but when I buy you one I’m pushy and controlling?
Men at Work Signs
This is just ancient guys, really? I’m sure you can put your minds together and find a relatively general neutral sign that gives the same message.
Rihanna
Not usually one to judge, I’m sorry, but I just can’t forgive you RiRi. Getting back with the man who abused you and released songs like “better with the lights off” is not okay. And your fashion line is skanky.
Hey Porsche by Nelly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZPEg9gOL9U
Oh Nelly, your tunes are catchy but telling Porsche you want to take her top off and that “we can just park somewhere” isn’t exactly grade A romance. I know it’s getting hot in here but I will not be taking my clothes off without at least dinner and a movie.
Women’s vs. Men’s Magazines
I know you want me to lose weight. But cottage cheese and a handful of almonds aren’t going to do anything for me. I want what the men get. I want a protein shake, a booster meal, a post workout snack, you know, something of substance. Can we please stop pretending cottage cheese tastes good.
Oh and the kicker…
So can we get our act together now? It’s 2013 not 1952. And no, I will not make you a sandwich.