Butt Writing
Butt writing is one of the weirdest fashion trends of recent years.
Photo credit: Fire Monkey Fish
Why would anyone want to wear an advertisement on their behind?
Photos from Malingering unless noted otherwise.
Even if it’s not an ad, I’m not sure how tasteful or appropriate it is to display words on one’s derriere (By popular demand in comments and emails, post edited to add a JUICY butt).
Especially when the words are “GET LOW”
Or “Dig It”
Or “Aloha”
Or “Babe”
Or “PLAY”
What do you think about the fashion trend of butt writing? Fun and harmless or distasteful and stupid?
—
More fashion commentary from MomGrind: Top 10 Fashion Mistakes
Comment Of The Day: “This is right up there with thong flashing above low rise butts, or even plumber’s crack (the non-smokable kind).” Betsy Wuebker of Passing Thru.
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janet responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:06 pm →
You missed the WORST one: “juicy”.
WHY would any self-respecting girl/woman walk around with that on their bottom? I know it’s the brand, but sheesh!
Davina responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:08 pm →
Hi Vered. My first reaction? Distasteful and stupid. I never liked the idea of anyone watching my butt in the first place, even if it is a nice one… and it is
Mike Goad responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:09 pm →
Might look like an invitation to some, but to others, it’s just a “low” taste.
I personally don’t care for any sort of writing or advertising on clothing, with a few, rare exceptions.
Hunter Nuttall responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:14 pm →
I’d like to see one that says “YOUR AD HERE 555-5555.” It’s always good to get into new forms of advertising before they get saturated.
Shalee Clark responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:20 pm →
I have to say I do like the Pink Victoria Secret pants. But I do not wear them in public. Sweats are made to be worn around your house.
Avital responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:21 pm →
Definitely distasteful and stupid.
I’m quite sure the first picture is from Israel. It fits the “fashion” trend… (I really like the word game. Is the pun intended?)
kathy responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 7:53 pm →
Welcome back Vered
Hope you had a relaxing and wonderful holiday. I missed your thought-provoking posts over the holidays.
I say whatever floats your boat. It’s not something I would wear in public.
My daughters had several of these for cheer leading but they only wore them at home as pj’s.
Maybe its a generation gap or something – I just don’t’ go outside the house in lounge wear. Especially if I looked like some of these from the rear…
RC - Rambling Along... responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 8:04 pm →
Although I originally found some of it cute (cheerleaders with their team name on the butts of their uniform pants), I now just find it tasteless.
#1 – Very few butts should have extra attention called to them, and too often the ones wearing this fashion are not one of these butts.
#2 – Really? We need to call attention to our butts in this way? Are the low-cut, crop tops and barely-there shorts or skirts, paired with the lucite, platform heels, not pulling in enough attention for these people?
#3 – Sort-of hard to take anyone wearing this style seriously, in any way.
#4 – Talk to most dads and brothers, as this is the last thing they want to see their daughters or sisters wearing.
#5 – Just another example of a culture focused on sex appeal only.
#6 – It scares me that I see little, really little, girls wearing these pants, too. What are the parents thinking?
RC - Rambling Along... responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 8:05 pm →
Forgot to mention – I hope you had a nice break with the family, Vered. Welcome back and thanks for stopping by earlier.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 8:22 pm →
@ janet: It’s true. I did miss that.
@ Davina: “even if it is a nice one… and it is” – good for you!
@ Mike: I completely agree on writing on clothing.
@ Hunter: Ha that’s not a bad idea.
@ Shalee: “Sweats are made to be worn around your house.” – I tend to agree.
@ Avital: Could very well be. They look Israeli.
@ kathy: Thanks! Yes, winter break was good, but it’s good to go back to routine after a long break and I did miss blogging. I agree that there’s a generation gap here.
@ RC: “It scares me that I see little, really little, girls wearing these pants, too. What are the parents thinking?” I agree. I actually found a few photos of little girls wearing these things but decided against posting them.
Jamie | WiredParentPad responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 8:29 pm →
Although I don’t necessarily think it’s in the greatest taste… I also don’t really think it’s that big of a deal. Most of them aren’t really worthy of an ad, but (no pun) I think there are bigger fashion issues to tackle (crocs – and you did a great job of hitting that one Vered). I do agree, however, that sayings like “Juicy” are a bit much.
Dominique responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 9:21 pm →
I do think that butt writing is awful and worst then having pictures on it. I rather look at words on the front of the T-shirt or the back of a trendy jacket.
Mia responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 9:36 pm →
Personally, I’m not a big butt ad enthusiast. I have no butt ads myself and will fight my daughter tooth and nail if she wants to wear one…butt (tee-hee) I don’t have to worry about that for some time, she’s only 2.
Kat responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 10:40 pm →
Stupid and distasteful….unless you are under the age of 3yo and your name is on your cute little bloomies covering your diaper.
Carla responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 11:08 pm →
Its pretty tacky. I guess my taste is a little more refined, but why would you want to give attention to your butt? At least THAT type of attention.
Welcome back and Happy New Year!
Robin responds:
Posted: January 4th, 2009 at 11:58 pm →
Hunter always says something funny.
I wonder if they forget the writing is there – after all, it is BEHIND them!
J.D. Meier responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 12:05 am →
Does it come in braille?
Welcome back Vered and Happy New Year!
Barbara Swafford - Blogging Without A Blog responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:47 am →
Hi Vered – I don’t get it, and thought it was just me. Glad to know it confuses you and others.
veena responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:49 am →
hey happy new year! i think butt writing is not for me… don’t care about other people doing it though
Kelvin Kao responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:26 am →
To follow up on what J.D. said, if there was a braille version, then am I also invited to touch?
I’m not going to say whether it’s good or bad taste or not, because I don’t like to judge. Instead I’ll share what’s a natural response for me:
Since I’m literate, when I see big letters, I naturally want to find out what it says. So like it or not, my eyes are naturally drawn to the butt. Since it’s an involuntary response, I appreciate it when I see a nice butt. However, it’s painful when the butt looks bad, because my eyes are still drawn to the letters forcing me to look at the nasty butt. And that’s just unfortunate.
Tara responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:43 am →
Surely some of those could be done for false advertising. Babe?
The worst I’ve seen is pre teen girls wearing joggers saying ‘sexy’ or ‘bitch’. I think I’d pull every hair out of my head if my daughter asked me to wear something hideous like that.
MizFit responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 4:26 am →
I SO do not get it either—it makes me feel old while simultaneously giving me a LOT of writing fodder for my tween fiction
Maxo responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 6:30 am →
When I was a bachelor I found it quite useful. As soon as I saw the butt shorts I knew to stay away.
I have seen they have started to make these things for prepubescent children. *Gross*
Tabitha (From Single to Married) responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 7:56 am →
I’m glad you said something because I always thought this “trend” was ridiculous. there’s something so odd about it and I always find that I have to look just so I can read what’s written, but then I feel bad for looking like it was inappropriate somehow.
ps – have you noticed that the items with writing on them are never made out of flattering material? Some of the pictures you used make me shudder – what WERE they thinking?
Writer Dad responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 8:23 am →
The trend has no class. I hope it dies a quick death, though I doubt it will. It makes me shudder to think my daughter will ever drift through a phase where she thinks something like that is cool.
Tara responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:24 am →
Maxo: “When I was a bachelor I found it quite useful” – oh how I laughed when I read that!
Tom Volkar / Delightful Work responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:26 am →
It all depends on your point of view.
FFB responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:42 am →
Let’s look at another angle at why this is stupid for people to wear – They are actually PAYING for the company’s advertising! What a great ploy on the company’s part! When people pay for these pants or shorts they are tools for company. It would be one thing if the company gave them out free but I’m sure in many cases a premium is paid by the customer for the brand name.
San Diego Momma responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:48 am →
I find it distasteful. I don’t want to read butts. I have a hard enough time reading the books stacked on my bedside table.
And I’m not a prude, but letters sprawled across two butt cheeks just seems distasteful, no matter the firmness.
Suzie responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:49 am →
I gotta agree juicy really grosses me out. I like to keep my butt clear of advertsing. Im just old fashioned that way
Tracy responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:50 am →
I bought my youngest son a romper with a picture of a monkey on a bike on the front and on the butt it says “cruiser”. I thought nothing of it since “cruiser” was the age of the stage he was in (walking by cruising between pieces of furniture) and it was on super sale.
Then my husband saw it and that was the end of that romper. Honestly, the thought that somebody could have taken it in a naughty way didn’t enter my mind.
It baffles me how many moms I see wearing “sexy” shorts or jog pants to pick up the kids at school.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:58 am →
@ Jamie: There ARE bigger fashion issue to tackle, but they’re not as fun as this one.
@ Dominique: Agreed, though personally I’d rather not see words on clothing at all, especially if it’s the designer’s logo.
@ Mia: “and will fight my daughter tooth and nail if she wants to wear one” – my oldest is 9 so I can definitely see this struggle in my future. I’m trying to pick my battles, so I just might let this one go, as long as it doesn’t say PLAY.
@ Kat: Agree!
@ Carla: Happy New Year… it’s good to be back.
@ Robin: Hunter is one of my favorite online people.
@ J.D. Meier: Haha maybe there should be one. And thanks – I missed you guys.
@ Barbara Swafford: You’re not alone.
@ veena: “don’t care about other people doing it though” – that’s a good point. I’ll care when it’s my daughters, though.
@ Kelvin Kao: For sure, these things make the eyes focus on the wearer’s behind.
@ Tara: Preteens with those words? Scary.
@ MizFit: Tweens scare me and my oldest will soon be one.
@ Maxo: I think this has a good chance of becoming Comment Of The Day.
@ Tabitha: Yep, that’s part of why I’m confused about the whole thing.
@ Writer Dad: “It makes me shudder to think my daughter will ever drift through a phase where she thinks something like that is cool.” Exactly.
@ Tom Volkar: Everything does…
@ FFB: It’s true. They pay a premium for the brand, then advertise it for free.
@ San Diego Momma: “And I’m not a prude, but letters sprawled across two butt cheeks just seems distasteful, no matter the firmness.” Haha OK another great candidate for Comment Of The Day.
@ Suzie: “I like to keep my butt clear of advertising.” – Same here.
@ Tracy: “Honestly, the thought that somebody could have taken it in a naughty way didn’t enter my mind.” – I know what you mean – but personally I avoid these with my kids. Of course, soon they’ll become tweens and then I’ll need to decide if I want to turn this into a struggle.
Natural responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 9:58 am →
yikes! butt writing is not allowed in my home. never will be. don’t like it.
Bamboo Forest - PunIntended responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 10:16 am →
This is a good observation. I think butt writing is a bit demeaning to women.
apricot tea. responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 10:24 am →
I could never get this either. Although… in high school, I was guilty of wearing black pants that said “hottie” on them, I believe (though I can’t remember for sure). But you are right, it is an (un)dignified advertisement. & it’s sad that most of the pictures you’ve shown, the people have less than attractive bootys to stare at. ;/
happy new year to you, Vered. =]
Emily@remodelingthislife responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:16 am →
I don’t really get it either but it’s more offensive to me how many of those photos have women in horrifically ill fitting clothing. I don’t even notice the words on their butt when all I can see is a woman in pants 3 sizes too small.
Maya responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:26 am →
Yet another advertising gimmick that people mistake for fashion/cool – I really wish consumers used more of their brains and yes, wore better fitting/appropriate clothing
Happy New Year Vered!
May responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:28 am →
Hate it! It’s almost as bad as crocs
Fashion Mistakes | responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:36 am →
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Ugly Shoes | responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:45 am →
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Skinny Jeans Are Not For Everyone | responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:48 am →
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Most Flattering Jeans | responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:49 am →
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Dr. J responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 12:00 pm →
LOL!! You crack me up!! I’ve noticed this trend for a while, and think poorly of it. Whenever I see the ARMY shorts, I read it : Are My? and my answer is yes they are
RC Rambles... responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 12:01 pm →
Loving the braille comment… **giggle**
Patricia responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 12:15 pm →
I have one daughter who wants designer clothing and loves to advertise how much money she spent on clothing – I think it is a pre-warning that she is not the brightest thinker on the planet – tho be forewarned she will want to bankrupt you for clothing wishes and wants….the good news is that she does not wear words on her behind and would not even wear it for tennis team outfits….my kids all think muscle definition and looking buff is a better advertisement for their good looks. All three of them took Karate along the way for protection issues and confidence. All three have a sport of highest interest and that they work on to keep in good shape while they are studying. I really worked at this….
But I think the trend is very trashy as it wearing styles that do not look good on you…
Dot responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 12:25 pm →
I’m guessing the butt writing is intended to say, “Look at my butt.” What confuses me is, the butts that advertise are usually unpleasant to look at. Maybe the good butts don’t need advertising. At any rate, distasteful to me, and kind of reminds me of someone on a website about makeup whose screen name was “BreathtakinglyBeautiful.” Kind of sad when you have to compliment yourself.
Marelisa responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:23 pm →
Yeah, I’ve seen people wearing the “juicy” sweat pants at my gym here in Panama. It’s just tacky. Really funny though, Vered
Stephanie responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:32 pm →
My husband loathes these, especially on younger girls. We’re going to try really hard to keep our daughters from wearing these kinds of styles. Just ugly and tacky.
Betsy Wuebker responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:42 pm →
This is right up there with thong flashing above low rise butts, or even plumber’s crack (the non-smokable kind). Some things are just visual assaults, aren’t they?
Aunt Becky responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:42 pm →
*shrugs*
Anyone who wears these knows precisely what they’re doing when they do it. Is it tacky? Yup. Is it occasionally obscene? Of course! But overall, it’s harmless.
Jeff Sparkman responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:53 pm →
I think the trend is pretty stupid, but that’s not to say that we can’t make it more stupid by using other slogans to slap across (so to speak) rear ends. Ideas:
Crack kills
If you can read this, you’re too close
Intel inside
Tracy responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 1:57 pm →
@Vered, I know what you mean, it just never crossed my mind with baby clothes (although I do avoid shirts with questionable phrases on them like “ladies man”). I just took a look, almost all of his rompers have something on the butt! Mostly innocuous though – I’m really guessing and hoping that the person who put cruiser on the seat of that romper just didn’t make the connection like I did!
Hmm, I don’t recall his older brother’s having such decorated bottoms, so this must be a new trend in baby clothes.
Totally agree with you on choosing your struggles. My oldest boy is 13 – I draw the line at the outright crude and offensive but will let him wear t shirts that are merely tacky (to my sense of style, not eww gross). Even though he rolls his eyes, I think he appreciates that I still set boundaries.
Lovelyn responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:05 pm →
I agree. Butt writing is confusing. Like Dot said the butts that are written on are usually quite unpleasant to look at. The trend has lasted longer than I ever thought it would.
Dave Fowler responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:10 pm →
Firstly, Butt Writing is just wrong. It’s just as wrong as boob writing. I’m a man. I don’t need to be handed an excuse to stare at those regions and then get blamed for being a pig.
Secondly, LMAO @ Betsy
Thirdly (is ‘thirdly’ a word?), Hi Vered!!
David Le Page responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:19 pm →
Gosh. Here in South Africa, I have not seen this phenomenon. It is completely, totally new to me. And we’re not as much of a backwater as some might think.
I might say that we just have better taste, but I’m afraid ours is not a nation renowned for its taste.
That said, I’m surprised that it seems to bother folks so much. I have long been dumbstruck by people’s willingness to carry free advertising for various brands on other parts of their anatomy, so it’s all much of a muchness to me.
Stacey / Create a Balance responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:27 pm →
When I was getting my Masters degree, I used to have the shortest shorts with the words Tigers on the butt. It was cutting edge back in 2000. I loved them (I wish I could now fit into them)! What on Earth was I thinking? Thank goodness my butt writing tush is not posted out on the blogosphere for everyone to see.
Jannie responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 2:55 pm →
Just plain silly, I think.
Dee Langdon - BloggerNewbie responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 3:01 pm →
AND most of the chickies in these pics shouldn’t be wearing anything but a work out suit. Not the same topic but spandex?? hello, 1 out of 100 can wear spandex. I just think more mirrors should be sold…
Al at 7P responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 3:48 pm →
When I first saw girls doing it, I thought it was pretty bold. It seems pretty mainstream now so the shock factor is gone. Not the most tasteful of fashion statements, but it could be worse.
Ruth responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 4:29 pm →
It’s a way to show off that fine fine @$$. Can’t not look at it. That said, I think that dressing to draw copious attention to any one body part is tacky and often trashy. So if people are happy looking tacky and trashy and having every passerby looking at their behinds, then they can go for it, at least they’re wearing pants. They should just realize how it makes them look.
But I think that only people over 15 or 16 or somesuch should be wearing those pants. It’s the parents’ job to teach younger kids not to look trashy or to dress them up in a prematurely sexual way. And it bothers me when the look is marketed to adolescents.
There are plenty of ways to be comfy without buying “hot butt pants” as my husband calls them. And speaking of that, I think that drawing attention to one’s butt inside isn’t trashy at all and kind of fun.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 5:37 pm →
@ Natural: I would forbid my daughters from wearing it… but I’m trying to pick my battles.
@ Bamboo Forest: I agree.
@ apricot tea: Haha @ high school hottie.
Happy New Year!
@ Emily: I agree that even without the writing, the clothes are mostly not great choices simply because they’re ill fitting.
@ Maya: Agree. I don’t know how fashion designers convince people that something is “cool” even when it’s obviously nit a good look. Happy New Year!
@ May: Almost.
@ Dr. J:
@ RC: I know! I want to pick a “comment of the day” but it’s really hard.
@ Patricia: “my kids all think muscle definition and looking buff is a better advertisement for their good looks.” Smart kids.
@ Dot: “Maybe the good butts don’t need advertising.” There you go, another candidate for Comment Of The Day.
@ Marelisa: Glad I made you smile Mare.
@ Stephanie: I agree that these are especially disturbing on tweens.
@ Betsy Wuebker: You made me laugh out loud!
@ Aunt Becky: Tacky but harmless: probably.
@ Jeff Sparkman: “Intel Inside” is my favorite.
@ Tracy: “Even though he rolls his eyes, I think he appreciates that I still set boundaries.” This is reassuring. I am so not looking forward to this age.
@ Lovelyn: “The trend has lasted longer than I ever thought it would.” – I agree!
@ Dave Fowler: Hi there!
I know what you mean about just having to stare.
@ David Le Page: Hey, I haven’t heard from you in a while. Nice to “see” you again. I agree that people advertise designer logos all over, but there’s something about putting these texts on your behind that makes it especially tacky.
@ Stacey: “Thank goodness my butt writing tush is not posted out on the blogosphere for everyone to see.” It’s not too late… I can still add it if you email me a photo.
@ Jannie: That, too.
@ Dee Langdon: “Not the same topic but spandex?? hello, 1 out of 100 can wear spandex.” Probably 1 out of 1000.
@ Al at 7P: You’re making an interesting observation. So it started out as a bold statement, but now that the shock factor is gone, it’s just tacky.
@ Ruth: “dress them up in a prematurely sexual way.” – This is a major concern of mine. Right now my oldest is 9 so we’re not there yet, but the struggle could start very soon – in just a couple of years.
“I think that drawing attention to one’s butt inside isn’t trashy at all and kind of fun.” I can’t argue with that.
Evelyn Lim responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 6:13 pm →
61 comments on this topic???? I must say that butt advertising is highly effective. It got people talking!!
Rachel responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 7:06 pm →
I cannot stand ‘butt writing’
And now they even have it for young girls! De Classe’ and super tacky.
ugh.
Memarie Lane responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 7:07 pm →
I saw a horrible one just yesterday. A very large woman with quite the camel toe had “WISH” in huge, sequined letters on her butt. Wish what? Wish I were a baller? Wish I had a smaller butt? Wish I hadn’t had that green chile burrito for lunch?
Kelly@SHE-POWER responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 7:29 pm →
You come up with the funniest post ideas, Vered. This had me equally cringing and laughing. My take is butt writing is trashy, trashy, trashy!
If that’s your ‘style’ then wearing slogans in your butt should be an essential part of any wardrobe decision. On the other hand, if you hold yourself in a bit higher esteem, then forget advertising on your butt. Tone it, work it and let it speak for itself I say.
Kelly
Jason responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 8:25 pm →
I agree with @shalee. These types of pants/shorts/sweats should only be worn around the house. (or not at all) The only way to get away with these is if you have a very nice butt that people will want to look at. (And expect people to look at it.) (Not a single one found in the pictures above.)
Nurit responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 10:30 pm →
yeah, I really dislike this trend.
Also, don’t like to advertize AND pay for the clothes. I admit it, sometime I do buy “Gap”. love their T-shirts. But no logos on the “tuches”.
Juliet - LifeMadeGreat responds:
Posted: January 5th, 2009 at 11:33 pm →
Hi Vered
Great to have you back and writing. Hope you had a good break!
To be quite honest, I didn’t know what was meant by “butt writing”. (Slight coy look of embarrassment). Finally I decided it was a typo and should have been “but”.
Clearly this trend hasn’t reached South Africa in full force. Or either I haven’t noticed or don’t visit the appropriate places.
It does look rather cheeky (sorry, bad pun). I’m too much of a “hider” to wear.
Juliet
Scarlet responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 3:50 am →
I hate, and always have hated, sloganed clothing. From one aspect, you paid for that item of clothing to look good for YOU…not the manufacturer…if they want you to advertise thier clothing they should pay YOU to wear it, surely thats how advertising works??
Also; “Pink” – I hate pink! lol! “BC BG” – I will admit to not truly knowing what this means! But then I am British! “Juicy” – No, you’re not juicy, you are a woman; a worthwhile human being who deserves to be courted and woed for her beauty AND intelligence!!! NOT an apple to be bitten and thrown in the trash at the end! “Get Low”- I dont think so mate, not for at LEAST a few months or until I think you match my intellectual playing field!! “Dig It”- As with “get low”! “Alo Ha” – Surely you could just turn around and say ‘hello’???? “Babe” – Yes I am ;P but thats also a matter of individual opinion (!) & I don’t feel the need to spread this news to the world whether they like it or not. “Play”- is not something i’m willing to do with some stranger who I just caught reading my arse!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL!
Would love to hear peoples thoughts on these points. I’m open minded & love these blogs!!!!!! Thanks Vered!! xx
Lance responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 4:35 am →
Well…you won’t catch me wearing any writing on my butt!!
Has the butt become the new billboard?
Karl Staib - Work Happy Now responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 6:24 am →
The only way I’m wearing advertising on my butt is if some won paid me big bucks – enough to retire. I understand the need to stand out, but come’on. If you have a nice butt, believe me people will look.
John_from_Bristol responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 7:44 am →
Well, I would not let my daughter wear that crap. On the funny side, I’ve seen a few husbands get whacked in the head by their wives for “reading the girl’s butt”. I thought the idea was to stop this business of making women into sex objects. How does this help? Drawing attention to their posteriors? Yeah, that will work. Whats worse is there are women for whom that area is not their best feature. Again we apply the old dictum: “Just because they make it in your size does not mean you should wear it.”
IF you start that Arse business, consider making practical use of this for the ‘fat arsed” out there, a line with “wide load” on it….In safety yellow and black diagonal stripes like the cars that follow and proceed trucks on the highway.
Otherwise, I hope this is only a fad like the “camel toe” jeans were, and it goes away. It is disgusting and immodest.
CK Lunchbox responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 9:00 am →
I think people sometimes wear clothing that advertises ideas or characteristics of who they see themselves as or want others to believe they are when in actuality that’s not who they are at all. (If I were being honest here, I would have to include myself in that mix at an earlier time in life) My favorite would be to see someone with the words “Classy” written across their back end. Ironic.
Chris responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 10:17 am →
Hunter, you kill me…LOL
Don Mills Diva responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 11:53 am →
Definitely distasteful and stupid.
It’s just so tacky and lame.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 12:45 pm →
@ Evelyn Lim: Haha I think it’s on eof those topics that everyone has an opinion on.
@ Rachel: Seeing tweens wear these is highly disturbing.
@ Memarie Lane: Another candidate for Comment Of The Day!
@ Kelly: “Memarie LaneTone it, work it and let it speak for itself I say.” Amen to that.
@ Jason: “These types of pants/shorts/sweats should only be worn around the house. (or not at all)” – I agree.
@ Nurit: Logos on other places are better… but I do try to avoid logos altogether.
@ Juliet: Thanks! Yes, winter break was good. But going back to normalcy is nice too! Re “butt writing,” if you search the web you will find it’s mostly called “ass writing.” I just couldn’t bring myself to say it. Yes, I’m a prude.
@ Scarlet: BCBG is the logo of a US designer. “Juicy” is a play on the words juicy and on the company’s name – Juicy Couture. I completely agree with “No, you’re not juicy, you are a woman; a worthwhile human being who deserves to be courted and woed for her beauty AND intelligence!” These clothes are indeed demeaning to women.
@ Lance: I don’t think they even make those for men. It seems only women are targeted with this particular trend.
@ Karl Staib: “I understand the need to stand out” – it probably started this way, but now it’s just mainstream. And silly and tacky.
@ John_from_Bristol: Bristol? That’s in the UK, I think. Welcome to MomGrind.
“I thought the idea was to stop this business of making women into sex objects. How does this help?” – exactly.
@ CK Lunchbox: That would be ironic indeed.
@ Chris: I know, he’s great.
@ Don Mills Diva: Lame! That’s the word I was looking for! Thanks.
The Stiletto Mom responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 2:24 pm →
Here’s the thing…the booty rarely matches the advertisement. For instance, I’m Irish…no butt…none at all. Someone gave me a pair of Juicy sweats and I was like, “What is this some kind of sick joke??” and promptly returned them. It’s always the unfortunate tooshies with the ads on them it seems.
Giyen responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 5:30 pm →
I am totally with you on this one. I’ve spent a lifetime trying to DE-emphasize my ass.
Jade responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 7:21 pm →
I really find this a bit cheap. I am about the same age as Paris Hilton but I wouldn’t walk around with this even if I have not such a bad butt myself;)
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 8:54 pm →
@ The Stiletto Mom: So true. Those poor unfortunate tooshies with ads on them.
@ Giyen: Good luck with the weight loss. You can totally do it if you put your mind to it.
@ Jade: “even if I have not such a bad butt myself” – good for you!
David Le Page responds:
Posted: January 6th, 2009 at 11:39 pm →
Following this thread reminds me of something. It’s of being in a school ground where some kids are jeering at another one because of something odd or distinctive or non-conventional about that one.
Personally, this trend is not for me. But why is it not enough to say that? Why all the judgmental comments from some about people who happen to enjoy having this kind of fun with what they wear? “Distasteful,” “stupid,” “tacky,” “lame”, “trashy”. And underneath it all, quite a lot of implied judgement about the class and intelligence of those people. And snide comments about weight, etc.
Well done on selecting a hot topic, Vered. (And hello again to you too!)
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 7th, 2009 at 1:17 pm →
@ David Le Page: You’re raising a valid point. My main thoughts:
1. We are making fun of a trend here, not of individuals. The photos don’t disclose these people’s identities. None of us would ever approach someone on the street and jeer at them because of their choice of clothing. So your comparison to a schoolyard bullying scene isn’t accurate.
2. This is not about mocking someone for being different. On the contrary. Butt writing is mainstream now, especially in places like LA. These people are not distinctive or non-conventional. They are fashion slaves.
3. Yes, I am sometimes judgmental. This post on Fashion Mistakes is a good example. Again, I am protecting people’s identities and judging trends rather than individuals. But yes, my fashion commentary is not exactly “nice.”
4. It’s not my readers. It’s me. I am being judgmental in the original post. They are simply responding. So if you need to take issue with someone, please do it with me, not with my readers.
David Le Page responds:
Posted: January 7th, 2009 at 1:35 pm →
Oh dear, have I caused offence?
The judgmental words I selected came from a range of posts.
The schoolyard bullying metaphor (I didn’t use the word ‘bullying’) was not meant to be taken literally. My point is perhaps that we human beings use a whole variety of means to create ‘us’ and ‘them’ categories, and the list doesn’t stop at race and gender and sexual orientation and religion.
I am NOT suggesting the remarks above are consonant with racism. Nor that having fun critiquing fashion is wicked. I was simply pointing to the fact that, to my mind, some of the comments seem to be edged with a little more judgment not just of trends, but of individuals, than is really necessary. To my mind, it doesn’t really matter that the people concerned are anonymous.
But perhaps I was taking this too seriously.
Davina responds:
Posted: January 7th, 2009 at 2:00 pm →
In hindsight, if I were to wear some butt writing (I’m not planning to), the words would be “Sit On It”
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 7th, 2009 at 3:21 pm →
@ David Le Page: a dear friend and an excellent life coach, Tim Brownson, taught me that we choose whether or not to get offended over something. So no, not offended. But we are obviously in disagreement here which is fine.
@ Davina: That would be a fine choice.
Laura responds:
Posted: January 7th, 2009 at 5:56 pm →
Absolutely tacky! My biggest pet peeve on this trend is young girls who wear words like “brat” across their butt. First, I don’t want my child refering to herself as a brat. Second, I really don’t think I want random strangers looking at my 10 year old’s butt. Too many creeps in the world. Can I almost mention that I am completely at a loss as to why the girls, who attend the school I teach at, wear their pajama pants to school?!?
Ian Peatey responds:
Posted: January 8th, 2009 at 9:24 am →
It could be that I walk around with my eyes shut as I haven’t noticed butt writing. Or maybe it’s not reached the places I walk around. Or maybe I don’t stare at women’s butts. Or all of the above.
But now I’ve read this post I’ll be on alert and paying lots of attention. Seems more fun and harmless than distasteful to me. But I seem to be in a minority judging from most of the other comments.
Eric responds:
Posted: January 8th, 2009 at 3:40 pm →
At first it never bothered me…
when I was out there dating… it was cute… flirtatious, funm but now that I am older, married and with a baby on the way I start thinking… if I was having a daughter, would I want her to wear stuff like that? Stuff that would attract guys to look at her butt?!?! No! No! I don’t even wanna think, imagine or … think it! It must be stopped!
*breathe* I am having a boy, so I guess he will be one of those guys who likes looking at the writing on the butts! LOL!
It all depends on the age I guess… but what is age appropriate?
16, 18, 20, 25?
Maybe it is just a fad that we will end up seeing on VH1′s “I love the millenium!”
LOL!
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 8th, 2009 at 9:04 pm →
@ Laura: “I really don’t think I want random strangers looking at my 10 year old’s butt.” My oldest is 9. I completely agree.
@ Ian Peatey: “Or maybe I don’t stare at women’s butts. ” You will now thanks to me.
@ Eric: “Maybe it is just a fad that we will end up seeing on VH1’s “I love the millenium!”” – probably.
Mark responds:
Posted: January 9th, 2009 at 6:18 pm →
I have a 15 year old daughter and still am confused…..but as my daughter says “that’s how I roll!” Have a fantastic weekend!
Cricket responds:
Posted: January 9th, 2009 at 6:38 pm →
I have a teen son and this “butt label” as we call it is driving me crazy. Everywhere we look we sit it. I don’t have girls and I am thankful I don’t. I is bad enough watching my teen son read this. I cannot imagine being the parent that allows it.
In 20 years they are going to look back and ask the big “what were we thinking?”
Kristin responds:
Posted: January 10th, 2009 at 4:54 pm →
Let me just tell you that I do not own any type of pants with writing on the rear. I would be a great advertisement though… “Reeses, 2 Peanut Butter Cups”
Yes, my butt is large and could fit the whole advertisement and it is a perfect example of what happens to a butt when you eat too much Reeses!
Andre Kibbe responds:
Posted: January 11th, 2009 at 5:21 pm →
Maybe a conceptual artist should come along and subvert the trend by politicizing it. Some ideas for butt inscriptions:
* Sweatshop
* Iraq
* WWJD?
* No Logo
* I’m a PC!
* More than Sinatra
* Mrs.
* IQ: 173
I hate writing on clothes anywhere, on men or women. The objectification goes beyond women — we’ve turned ourselves into accessories of our products.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 11th, 2009 at 7:53 pm →
@ Mark: Age 15 IS confusing, as I recall. To the parents AND to the teenager.
@ Cricket: “In 20 years they are going to look back and ask the big “what were we thinking?” – probably.
@ Kristin: Hmm… I visited your blog and saw your photo. A large enough butt for that? I don’t think so. I suspect you’re being hard on yourself. Women excel in that.
@ Andre Kibbe: I thought you stopped reading my blog! I know you’re trying to be more productive and the reading material I provide here is, well… not the most productive stuff. Anyway, I’m so glad to “see” you here and thanks for the laugh! I love all your suggestions.
DpwnShift responds:
Posted: January 11th, 2009 at 8:21 pm →
Reading is instinctive. When I see one of these,I read the word(s) in a tenth of a second before even realizing that I’m doing it. In a grocery store I realized that a few girls had matching “butt words”; turns out they were advertising their Jr. High or High School team! This, of course is nothing compared to butt writing on preteens- I’m glad I haven’t seen any of those yet…
Andre Kibbe responds:
Posted: January 11th, 2009 at 8:43 pm →
“I thought you stopped reading my blog! I know you’re trying to be more productive and the reading material I provide here is, well… not the most productive stuff.”
Haven’t stopped reading at all. I just batch all of my reading for Sundays instead of reading things during the week. Thanks for making it a worthwhile Sunday.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: January 12th, 2009 at 1:00 pm →
@ DpwnShift: It’s true that reading is instinctive and that you simply can’t avoid staring at these butts and reading what’s written on them. I guess this is the idea…
@ Andre Kibbe: Glad I managed to entertain you.
Sasha Grey and James Gunn Do Non-Porn...Watch It Anyway responds:
Posted: January 27th, 2009 at 7:23 pm →
[...] Dumb hookers have writing on their asses. If you are a dumb hooker, stop and throw those things away. You’re too old for that shit anyway*…Momgrind [...]
Supermance responds:
Posted: February 4th, 2009 at 3:31 am →
thats not stupid, but funny … lol
Cecily responds:
Posted: February 5th, 2009 at 3:12 pm →
I always wondered, just how much respect were you showing your team by emblazoning their name across your backside? How is this a compliment? It’s just WEIRD.
Kids’ Fashion: Is This Appropriate? | responds:
Posted: February 11th, 2009 at 9:30 pm →
[...] think these are cute at all. I think they are inappropriate and unnecessary. Kind of like butt writing on kids’ [...]
Shawna responds:
Posted: March 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am →
Frankly, I don’t really see what the big deal is. I say if you have a butt worth showing off, then by all means. Unfortunately, it’s the woman with the enormous butts that seem to wear them the most. I think you can wear something cute and sporty out in public if you do it the right way, and you can actually look cute. Most women look as if they rolled out of bed and threw the closest thing on, and it makes them look like they are wearing pj”s. I owned several things with “butt writing” on them when I was thinner and they actually looked good…and they were purchased for me by my husband! Although I still have some, since gaining weight, at least I have the common sense to not wear them out of the house. I think that is the real problem….women that think they look better than they really do….they give ANY fashion a bad name by wearing what doesn’t look good. As my husband always mutters when he sees one of them in public…”somebody LIED to her!!”.
Fay responds:
Posted: April 14th, 2009 at 7:56 am →
That was all the rage over here YEARS ago.
I was about 11 maybe, and I found it impossible to find jeans without writing on the ass.
I had to unpick the stitching holding the letters in place with a scissors, I was so desperate to not follow the masses into the pit of fashion don’ts.
Kaitlyn responds:
Posted: June 20th, 2009 at 10:12 pm →
I would just like to say that the “GET LOW” shorts are part of a merch line by a Band called All Time Low and if I were to advertise anything on my rear, it would be those guys (;
Worst Ever Fashion Trends « Death Wears Diamond Jewellery responds:
Posted: June 23rd, 2009 at 3:25 am →
[...] Remember when Juicy Couture scribbled ‘Juicy’ across the backside of their track pants? If you wore them a lot, it generally led to the middle letters becoming all faded as they disappeared up your bum. Not flattering. Want proof? Click here! [...]
Andrew A. Peterson responds:
Posted: August 19th, 2009 at 12:46 am →
On the topic of butt-writing, and in response to “Juicy” on the rear end of Women’s Sweat Pants, I have invented the “Hairy” but jean for men. Really.
Maybe I could get an honorable mention?
I have a picture of the project here:
Hairy Butt Logo Pants
Cheers.
Ten Stupid Fashion Trends responds:
Posted: October 27th, 2009 at 2:57 pm →
[...] Butt Writing, or ass writing if you prefer, is about making sure everyone notices your butt. In some cases, it’s about turning your behind into a walking advertisement for certain brands. I’ve already complained about this fashion trend. How come it’s still here? [...]
MomGrind: Best of 2009 | Blogger For Hire responds:
Posted: January 1st, 2010 at 9:01 pm →
[...] Butt Writing. When it comes to ridiculous fashion trends, nothing beats the trend of prancing around with words [...]
CutieGirlDiva responds:
Posted: June 22nd, 2010 at 5:12 am →
I agree with Janet, who would want to walk around with the word, “Juicy” on your rear? It just doesn’t make sense. You’ll end up looking like a clown! :*