Having deplored low-hanging pants before, Izzy was happy to see that communities are taking action to end the uncivil plague. Pushed to extreme measures, municipalities have criminalized the attire, which is all-too-appropriate given that the style originated in prison, where belts are prohibited. In attempt to get around free-expression Constitutional claims, the laws are aimed at prohibiting public indecency.
The New York Times’ story taught Izzy something new:
Not since the zoot suit has a style been greeted with such strong disapproval. The exaggerated boxy long coat and tight-cuffed pants, started in the 1930s, was the emblematic style of a subculture of young urban minorities. It was viewed as unpatriotic and flouted a fabric conservation order during World War II. The clothing was at the center of what were called Zoot Suit Riots in Los Angeles, racially motivated beatings of Hispanic youths by sailors. The youths were stripped of their garments, which were burned in the street.
Although Izzy would never encourage a riot, he would like to see a peaceful march that chants “Do not share / derriere / We can see your underwear!” And of course the placards would read “Up with pants!”
Miss Janey cannot agree enough. This trend has seen its day and should now go the way of the Flock of Seagulls hairdo and belly shirts, which sadly are still hangin’ in there, too, come to think of it.
Up with Pants. Down with tops!
Comment by Miss Janey — September 5, 2007 @ 2:43 pm
When I was a schoolgirl, nobody wanted their undergarments to show. That is why we had the schoolyard chant which notified offenders.
“I see London. I see France. I see someone’s UNDERPANTS !!!”
The target of the chant would quickly correct the problem.
Comment by Gina — September 5, 2007 @ 10:42 pm
Ah, I can understand the racially motivated aspect of this argument but I think this would apply to ANY sort of gang youth, regardless of race. It just gets complicated when you get Asian gangster-types – are they going to put a ban on A|X and Banana Republic?
Still, I can only imagine that it is quite uncomfortable wearing such oversized garments; a little bit of the waistband peeking out, I can understand and even forgive but 10+ inches of boxers?! You could fit the Russian circus in just ONE of the pant legs!
Comment by Ninjarina — September 6, 2007 @ 5:46 am
If you really want to put an end to this awful display of fashion, spread the following rumor. Boys running around with their pants below their buttocks are just looking to get F*cked up the A** by a big D*ck. Why else would they be walking the streets with just their underwear showing. Tell them that every Gay man is checking them out and thinking how much they’d like to do them. I can tell you that this craze would come to an end toot sweet.
Signed,
A Gay Man who nevers wears his pants below his waist…..
Comment by Edward — June 27, 2008 @ 10:46 am