‘Big Girl’s Blouse’ Is Surely The Greatest Compliment Any Person Could Ever Receive

Boris Johnson's first Prime Minister's Questions went just the way you might have expected. It descended into a cacophony of indecipherable yelling, among which Johnson could barely be heard shouting at Jeremy Corbyn: 'Call an election then, you great big girl's blouse.' Aside from the hilarious vision of an overgrown blonde man, bright red in the face, yelling these words at another adult man, it was a depressing example of the state of UK politics right now. In this culture of outrage in which we all now reside, some have taken issue with the phrase Johnson used, deeming it sexist and derogatory. Of course, I see their point, and if you yourself have been offended by Johnson's words then I suggest you write to him to complain. I, myself, suggest it time that we all take up arms and reclaim the phrase. For what could be better than a truly brilliant blouse?

Perhaps one of the best things to come of all this is that several American publications have been forced to publish in-depth explanations as to what, exactly, constitutes a big girl's blouse. The other excellent consequence is to remind us all of why blouses are so necessary, particularly in our current climate (and I mean that literally, not politically); it's not quite the end of summer yet but autumn hasn't officially arrived, either. So, what better time to break out your best, weather-proof blouse? What better time to radiate Big Girl's Blouse energy?

Originally, blouses were predominantly part of a man's wardrobe, worn by workmen and struggling artists. For proof of this fact – lest you take me for a liar – is the historical text Shakespeare In Love, which is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and, subsequently, its historical accuracy. And by Jove, can Joseph Fiennes wear a peasant blouse.

More contemporary examples of men exhibiting BGB energy include Harry Styles and Alessandro Michele at the Met Gala in May of this year, both wearing truly spectacular Gucci blouses of Michele's design. In April of this year, US Vogue ran a story about the large amount of famous men who had taken to wearing pretty lace blouses. These included Sam Smith, Ezra Miller and even A$AP Rocky. Clearly, men are starting to realise something women the world over have always known: that blouses are versatile, transformative and easier to wear than, say, a statement dress.

Recently, many brands have also benefitted from BGB energy, with many styles selling out rapidly. Rixo, for example, has produced many a sell-out blouse, as has Reformation, MaisonCléo and Instagram-based label Aurore Van Milhem, whose bow detail tops have been a huge hit with influencers, in particular. Just today, H&M launched its latest Studio collection, in which a number of blouses have already completely sold out.

So, I say to people of all gender identities that it's time to invoke the power of BGB energy. Put on your blouse, go forth and prosper. Oh, and don't forget to vote.

SHOP: 7 Of The Best Blouses To Give You BGB Energy