The issue of gender equality has long been part of society’s conversations, and it’s still very much alive today. A female landscaper from Sydney, Australia, recently sparked a heated online discussion after speaking out about what she sees as unfair treatment at work. Her question is simple but striking: why are men allowed to work shirtless on hot days, while women are not?
On a day when temperatures soared to 40 degrees Celsius (104°F), Shianne Fox, known online as “The Bikini Tradie,” shared her frustration on TikTok. She explained how she had been told she couldn’t take her shirt off while working outside, even though the men on site were shirtless. Her words were direct and honest, “It’s a f—ing 40-degree day today, and I have to wear my shirt, while the boys don’t.” She called this a double standard and accused her workplace of sexism.
Shianne often works wearing a bikini top because of the extreme heat. She isn’t asking for anything unusual—just equal treatment to what the men receive. Having spent over four years in a male-dominated trade, she’s confident and comfortable with her choice. She feels there’s nothing inappropriate about her working without a shirt and argues that breasts are natural, so they shouldn’t be considered “distracting.”
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Not everyone agrees. Some critics say workplace rules and social norms exist for practical reasons and that maintaining professionalism should come first. Other women in the trades believe that Shianne’s bold social media posts damage the reputation of female tradespeople. “She doesn’t represent us,” one commented, while another said she makes women in the field look bad.
Despite the mixed reactions, Shianne’s videos have drawn thousands of responses, with many men showing support for her view. Some even joked in agreement, while others questioned if expecting air conditioning might be a better solution.
Her story shines a light on a larger problem. Women are still a small minority in many blue-collar jobs; a 2023 survey revealed that men outnumber women 12 to 1 in trades. Shianne’s message brings up an important question: is it more important to fight for changes like topless equality, or is the bigger challenge simply gaining access and respect in male-dominated industries?
Shianne says she enjoys her work and that the experience isn’t as unpleasant as some suggest. Though some say women get catcalled, she says holding your head high and standing your ground changes the dynamic.
The debate continues—should female workers be allowed the same freedoms as men to adapt to heat on the job, or is this too much? What do you think?