38-Year-Old Woman Faces Harsh Public Backlash for Wearing This 'Disgusting' Outfit to Kmart – What Was She Thinking?

In an age where personal expression and individual style are celebrated, it's disheartening to hear that a 38-year-old Australian woman faced public shaming for her choice of attire while shopping at Kmart. Hayli Hooper, a nurse from Western Australia, was simply going about her day, picking up items from the popular retail store, when she was confronted by another shopper who deemed her outfit 'disgusting.'



The incident raises important questions about societal expectations, body image, and the freedom to wear what we feel comfortable in. It's a reminder that, despite progress in many areas, judgment and unsolicited opinions about women's clothing choices are still prevalent issues.


shutterstock_2433674551.jpg
Hayli was shopping in Kmart when a complete stranger stopped her and commented on her outfit. Credit: Shutterstock


Hayli was dressed in pink activewear, a choice that many of us would consider practical and appropriate for a casual shopping trip. Yet, a woman in her fifties felt compelled to stop her and express that Hayli's outfit was unacceptable. The irony was not lost on Hayli, as the very outfit being criticized was purchased from Kmart's activewear section.



This wasn't the first time Hayli had been shamed for her clothing. On another occasion, she was nearly denied entry to a beachside restaurant for wearing what was described as 'beach wear,' despite it being a hot summer's day and her attire consisting of a denim skirt and a V-neck top. After a frustrating exchange, she was allowed entry, but the experience left her feeling demeaned.

Hayli's encounters highlight a troubling trend where women are scrutinized and judged for their clothing choices. It's a form of body shaming that can have a profound impact on self-esteem and confidence. Hayli, who is petite with a larger bust, felt that her body type contributed to the negative attention she received. She astutely pointed out that the criticism she faced said more about the critics than about her.

As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of respect and kindness towards others. It's essential to support one another's choices, especially when it comes to personal style. Clothing is a form of self-expression, and as long as it's not harming anyone, individuals should feel free to wear what makes them happy and comfortable.



We must ask ourselves why, in 2024, women are still subjected to this kind of public shaming. It's a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a more accepting society. Whether it's standing up for someone who is being unfairly judged or reflecting on our own biases, every action counts.

Key Takeaways
  • Hayli Hooper, a 38-year-old nurse from Western Australia, was shamed by a stranger while shopping at Kmart for wearing activewear deemed 'disgusting.'
  • The same woman has also faced discrimination at a beachside restaurant for wearing what was considered 'beach wear,' which was just a normal skirt and top.
  • Ms Hooper's experiences highlight the ongoing issue of women being judged and shamed for their clothing choices, despite the attire being appropriate for the setting and weather.
  • Despite being targeted for her clothing, Ms Hooper recognises that the negative comments reflect more on the attitudes of the individuals making them than on her own choices or character.

To our readers, have you ever experienced or witnessed similar shaming over clothing choices? How did you respond, and what advice would you give to someone in Hayli's situation? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's open up a dialogue about respect, individuality, and the right to wear what we choose without fear of judgment.
 
Sponsored
Couldn't help but laugh... all the whiners, groaners and 'judges', need to go online and see what people wear in the USA, at the largest store retailer, Walmart!
I guarantee that after a few viewings, you will complement those shoppers in Australia, that you think are dressed inappropriately!
 
Oh there is definitely another side of this story !!!

If she has been stopped a few times then she must have been very revealing.

Each to their own but I'm thinking for someone to say something to her in kmart then something wasn't right.

I'm thinking she is revealing more than she should

I see an elderly lady ( maybe 70) shopping at Roselands who thinks she is Barbie . Her make up is atrocious, her clothes are on another level. Her hair I'm sure is a wig. But she brings a smile to my face all because she is happy and very confident and looks like she enjoys life.
 
Couldn't help but laugh... all the whiners, groaners and 'judges', need to go online and see what people wear in the USA, at the largest store retailer, Walmart!
I guarantee that after a few viewings, you will complement those shoppers in Australia, that you think are dressed inappropriately!
I love looking at the photos from Walmart I keep thinking "What are thinking", because some are just weird and shocking.
 
While I would never tell anyone their attire is inappropriate no matter where they were, I must admit to seeing some very weird and over revealing outfits being worn by mostly female shoppers at my retail place of work. I’m sure some people must never look in the mirror and see just how bad they actually look in some of the outfits they wear. Some of the active wear out now definitely doesn’t look good on any female form, no matter how petite and slim they are. Some are so sheer that it is s not far removed from nudity.
 
Well what a subject to start a discussion. People have such opinions about what is appropriate and they are also quite diverse in making judgments. Culture comes into this as does religion and other attitudes. What is seen as permissible these days was very much frowned upon 50 years ago. And really if no one is hurt by what they choose to wear why should it bother anyone else? After all they are the ones making the choices
 
That woman should pull her head in. Who thinks they have the right to address anyone on their clothing choices. For heaven's sake it's 2024. Live and let live.
Kind regards to all Vicki
 
What about people who walk round locking like they are in their PJ there are plenty of those around, why does it matter to you it would be them that would be embarrassed not you. Now it seems anything goes.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Marilynne
What about people who walk round locking like they are in their PJ there are plenty of those around, why does it matter to you it would be them that would be embarrassed not you. Now it seems anything goes.
So true.
Kind regards Vicki
 
  • Like
Reactions: Marilynne
While I would never tell anyone their attire is inappropriate no matter where they were, I must admit to seeing some very weird and over revealing outfits being worn by mostly female shoppers at my retail place of work. I’m sure some people must never look in the mirror and see just how bad they actually look in some of the outfits they wear. Some of the active wear out now definitely doesn’t look good on any female form, no matter how petite and slim they are. Some are so sheer that it is s not far removed from nudity.
I agree, having seen a young girl 16 maybe,in a supermarket with tight in the rear swimsuit and nothing else, deplorable !.
 
I have seen plenty of people dressed like they don't own a mirror and even seen people shopping in their pj's with their robe on! I have even seen people shop in their swimwear and thongs and no-one bats an eye lol No-one says anything to them here lol we just look and smile to ourselves lol What that lady was wearing was quite ok in my opinion and I am 68 and wish I could get away with wearing something like that, I'd soon shake this place up LOL
 
Saw a picture of this women and the clothing did look like she was just wearing underwear. She's a nurse with overdone makeup and seemed to be looking for attention. She stated she had just been to the gym but the way she looked it was suss she did any workout with not a hair out of place and the perfect make-up. Admittedly the women who criticised her should keep her mouth shut and just mind her own business.
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else

Latest Articles

  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×