Please don't anyone take this wrong but after posting the photos of the shop and the three camouflage kilts earlier this week, the staff – known as The Ladies of Freedom Kilts -- brought up what I think is a valid point. One of them went up on X Marks to see what statements were made about the kilts. She noticed there were several comments about their appearance and it was obvious why I went to work each day, “hint, hint”, etc. But there were no comments made about the quality of their work. I had to step back and think about what she said, and I realized she was right.

The Ladies were hired because they brought a wealth of experience and knowledge about designing, sewing and tailoring. Their creativity and dedication to the high standards of this shop are integral to our success. They would like to be appreciated for that, and not – in this context – for how they look. I posted their photographs, holding the kilts, because I wanted people on X Marks to see where the kilts are made and meet the talented individuals who do the work in this shop.

When I posed the question of putting photos on the on-line forum, the Ladies were initially hesitant. I finally got the three of them to pose for a photo with the newest product of their labors. It was not easy to get them to do this. Yes, each of them are attractive young women and they pay attention to their appearance. But I took the photographs and posted them so they could show you what they had made and how much pride they take in what they produce.

The members of this on-line forum wear kilts, and we have all encountered individuals who immediately assign a stereotype to us. We have many discussions about how to deal with this; how to respond to individuals who confront us with these stereotypes. Some of the comments made about the Ladies, however positive they may seem to the individual making them, also fall within the “physical beauty” stereotype that women deal with. I am simply bringing this to your, and my, attention.