FASHION POLICE

Actress ReyizhaAlimjan， accused by netizens of “seeking attention with her breasts” by wearing a low-cut top at the airport， has sparked fierce debate over freedom of dress in China.

A WeChat article published after the incident， “A Wish for the Freedom of Dress for Chinese Girls，” was applauded by many feminists and attracted 5 million views in less than a day. Its author writes that Chinese women face sartorial scrutiny throughout their lives， from mothers and boyfriends who warn them not to bare their belly buttons or chests， to strangers who slut-shame their fashion choices—or simply feel empowered to comment on and give unsolicited advice about their looks.

Meanwhile， several Chinese cities have moved to curb “uncivilized” public behavior such as men baring their chests in summer. It seems as though fashion freedom is a long way from being accepted in the court of public opinion—for both genders. – SUN JIAHUI （孫佳慧）