Mar 23 2009
Unrealistic Expectations
Yesterday I ventured into Dick’s to purchase some Crocs for my kiddies. We went the cheapo/fascimile route before and the kids decided they wanted the real thing, so, being the indulgent parent I am, we went to look. I have no idea what the fascination with these things is but kids love them. Now Chuck Taylor high-tops I can understand, but a blob of plastic encasing your feet does seem to make much of a statement to me. We found what we wanted but then decided to go out to look at one of the kiosks to see if they had more styles/better prices.
The thing that was interesting to me at Dick’s was the different types of mannequins. I do not normally go around assessing mannequins in stores, but a couple really caught me attention here. In particular was one showcasing some Under Armor clothing. The dude was built. He had ripped arms, a tremendous chest and no doubt had 6-pack abs (I couldn’t tell because his shirt was on). It looked like it might’ve been juicing. It was depressing to me because it looked better than I could ever hope. People are always saying that girls have a warped view of themselves because of models, magazines, etc., but if boys are wandering through stores and seeing these mannequins, they’re going to think they need to bulk up, take vitamins, or worse. It is an unrealistic expectation/view of life and of clothing.
Having noticed this particular mannequin, I looked around at other ones, both male and female. The males were definitely more in shape but not quite as freakish as the UA mannequin. The female mannequins were mostly waifs because they were displaying either running/training outfits, or skimpy athletic wear. They would be somewhere in the 110 lb weight area I guessed.
It’s sad to me when the mannequins look better than me. I exercise regularly and eat appropriately, but I will never be able to match them. And for women/girls, I feel sorry for them. It is an unobtainable vision of health.
I think I’m going to stop shopping at Dick’s - too depressing.
