Do You Care About Gabby's Hair?
Much of the conversation in the media at this year's Olympics has been about fashion, specifically Gabby Douglas' hair and the beach volleyball outfits.
Graceful athleticism led the United States' gymnast Gabby Douglas to gold in the women's all-around competition last week. But some are criticizing her for not having her hair neatly tied back.
Should that even matter, though?
According to a post on Jezebel.com, the controversy came when many viewers thought Douglas' decision to wear her hair unbraided was a bad idea. As the writer pointed out, however, she's an Olympian not a model and she should wear her hair so it's comfortable.
"For an athlete, the best hairstyle is the kind that lets you accomplish your goals. Even if she never won anything, her life is about her strength, flexibility and tumbling ability—not to mention dedication and focus. What's in her head, not what grows out of it," the article said.
Women's beach volleyball has also seen a controversy around the fashion decisions. This time though, it wasn't one person, but the entire International Olympic Committee.
For the first time since women's beach volleyball was introduced, the competitors will be allowed to wear shorts and sleeved tops according to a Washington Post article.
"The change, announced in spring, was designed to accommodate countries’ cultural beliefs but, in the process, has devastated legions of male fans who cheer the sport’s skimpy attire as much as its athleticism."
The same article brings up discussion about women's boxing uniforms and badminton uniforms that would have the women wearing skirts instead of shorts.
What do you think about all of the fashion controversy at the London Olympics? Do you think the fashion conversation is taking away from the true meaning of the games? Sound off in the comments.
Margaret Carroll-Bergman
3:30 pm on Friday, August 10, 2012
Should an athlete be judged by her hair and fashion sense? Does it matter? Let us know what you think!
Karen Long
3:49 pm on Friday, August 10, 2012
Absolutely NOT!!!!!! Gabby was and is an amazing athlete!!! I did not even think about her hair while watching her control her body and show such a powerful performance. People who worry about trivial things really need to get a life!!! Have they looked in a mirror lately? Hmmmm. "Judge not lest ye yourselves be judged!" from the Bible.
Casey Meserve
4:07 pm on Friday, August 10, 2012
Not in the least. It's about athletic prowess, not what your hair looks like. I
malcolm nichols
6:39 am on Saturday, August 11, 2012
Karen, "judge not?". What do you think the Judges are doing?
Marjorie
9:42 am on Saturday, August 11, 2012
None of that should matter, only the skills.
Carolyn J Puleo
9:51 am on Saturday, August 11, 2012
The Judges job is to rate their athletic abilities, not what they look like. No one should judge another by their "cover".
William Waterway
9:53 am on Saturday, August 11, 2012
Just wait and see - Gabby will make a fortune when it comes time for her to do endorsements of hair products.
Kathleen DeWitt
9:57 am on Saturday, August 11, 2012
Her "hairdo" doesn't matter. She is being judged on her ability to perform, not her hair, attire, or anything else. She is an awesome athlete. Nanakate
Mel Cross
10:34 am on Saturday, August 11, 2012
I must have missed that, her smile is so beaming its what I see.......pretty girl with unbelievable ability!!!!! Go Gabby!