“Crystal’s Soapbox,” published each Thursday, is a column by conservative Texas mom Crystal Arcand who loves to rant about issues that relate to her kids….and yours.
It was viral before “American Idol” was over. “General” Larry Platt singing his original song, “Pants on the Ground” is a video sensation on You Tube. Jimmy Fallon has done multiple covers, as well as who knows how many YouTubers. Brett Favre sang it after a victorious football game. People everywhere are shouting, “Yes! Exactly!” But is that all there is to it?
I wholeheartedly agree with the lyrics, “Lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground.” I’ve despised the sagger fashion since its droopy beginnings. Apparently, I’m not alone in my disgust, as evidenced by the popularity of General Platt’s song. My question is, are the right people getting the message? Yes, it’s a catchy tune, and easy to learn. But will it make an impact as anything more than a one-hit wonder, oft-imitated but never acted upon?
There is an urban myth that the fashion trend began in prisons as a sign of sexual availability. While it is true that it began in the prison system, the meaning of it has been misconstrued. There is no “message” to loose, sagging pants in the prison system. They’re simply too big. The uniforms aren’t sized to the inmates and with the overcrowding problem, finding a well-fitting uniform just isn’t a priority. Belts are forbidden as a suicide or weapon risk. Consequently, prisoners wearing pants that are too big must simply let them hang.
On the outside, gang members and family members of the incarcerated simply sought to emulate the “tough guys” they knew on the inside. It’s not the baggy pants that made the guy tough. The baggy pants simply look undignified and silly, and have actually been known to kill a criminal sporting the look. Long story short: the entire sagging fad exists because of a desire to emulate convicts and felons.
Here’s hoping saggers get the message of “Pants on the Ground” – you look like a fool and you need to pull your pants up!
Comments
Jennifer Hudock
January 21st, 2010 - 11:27:10 AM
Yes! I thought this trend would die out years ago, but every time I hit the city, pants everywhere are on the ground. I understand people wanting to experiment with fashion trends, but wouldn't they be more unique and individually minded if they started a new trend and pulled their pants up?
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Paul A
January 21st, 2010 - 1:24:44 PM
I'm with you on this one. I'm just a little surprised at how long it's gone on. And now, not only are your pants on the ground, your underwear is showing - have some respect for yourself & pull ya pants up!
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