Row over ‘neutral’ uniforms
Stores drop labels for school clothes
ASDA and Debenhams have come under fire for making their school uniform ranges “gender neutral”.
The retailers said they ditched “boys” and “girls” labels so families can select trousers or skirts based on their children’s personal preferences.
They follow John Lewis, which became the first UK retailer to ditch gender labels from its kids’ clothing last year.
However, some parents said the measure defied common sense. Lynette Graham, of Carlisle, said: “There’s nothing wrong with shops advertising ‘boys’ and girls’. I wouldn’t be offended.
“Political correctness has gone stupid on this one.”
However, action group Let Clothes Be Clothes hailed the change.
Founder Francesca Cambridge Mallen said: “We welcome any move that removes unnecessary gender categories and titles, providing real choice for customers and avoiding the stereotyping of children into narrow ideas about what is appropriate for girls to wear and boys to wear.”
Most retailers still market their uniform ranges on traditional gender lines. But there have been growing calls for shops to cater for transgender pupils.
Debenhams said: “Following customer feedback, we removed boys and girls signage for our stores. The terms are used as filters on the website, although we encourage parents and children to select items based on their personal preference.”
Asda’s response was similar, saying: “Our customers are free to choose whatever they like to suit their taste.” The terms “boys” and “girls” are still in use for some Asda leisurewear collections.
Customers are free to choose what they like to suit their taste ASDA DEFENDS DECISION TO GO GENDER NEUTRAL