The debate surrounding gender equality in the workplace took a new turn when Australian tradeswoman Shianne Fox, known as “The Bikini Tradie,” raised a question about workplace dress codes. Fox, who has worked in male-dominated trades for over four years, expressed frustration after being told to keep her shirt on while working outdoors in 40-degree Celsius heat, while the men on site were allowed to work shirtless.
In a TikTok video, she called out what she saw as a sexist double standard, arguing that her request to go topless, just like the men, was not inappropriate and that societal perceptions of the human body needed to evolve.
Fox’s video quickly gained attention, with some supporters praising her stance, while critics argued that dress codes and workplace safety standards should be respected, and social norms surrounding public toplessness differ for men and women.
Despite receiving mixed reactions, Fox remains firm in her belief that challenging outdated norms is necessary to promote gender equality in the trades. She hopes that by speaking out, she can encourage more women to enter blue-collar professions, helping to close the significant gender gap in the industry.
While some female tradeswomen criticized her social media presence for undermining the credibility of women in trade jobs, Fox views her activism as a means to foster inclusivity and challenge traditional gender expectations.
Her viral moment sparks a broader conversation about gender equality in the workplace, raising questions about the balance between professional decorum, societal norms, and the right to equal treatment, both in dress codes and industry access.