What Are JoJo Bows and Why Are They Controversial?
For centuries, young girls have been wearing bows in their hair without any issues (other than the fact that they might occasionally fall out). But thanks to JoJo Siwa, the accessory might just become a major problem.
Loyal fans of the 13-year-old former Dance Moms star have taken to wearing her “JoJo bows,” which are simply large bows that clip into your hair. (Picture Minnie Mouse’s trademark polka-dot bow IRL.) “I’ve always just worn bows” JoJo told CBBC’s Newsround. “They just got bigger and better and sparklier — and then I became ‘JoJo with the bow bow’ and it became a thing.”
Siwa has embraced the trend, even entering into a partnership with Claire’s, the child-friendly jewelry and accessories store. Her JoJo-branded bows start at $12.99.
Getting Slimy!!! Can't wait for you to see what I am working on w/@Toyota & @Nickelodeon !! ????#ad #letsgoplaces???????????????? pic.twitter.com/iQpdv0X9Nb
— JoJo Siwa (@itsjojosiwa) February 28, 2017
As far as social media trends go, the bows seem downright sweet. (Especially when compared with the physically harmful effects of, say, the #KylieJennerLipChallenge, which had teens bruising their lips in attempt to look like their favorite Kardashian-Jenner.) Still, some schools have decided to ban the bows from classrooms.
According to the Guardian, schools in the United Kingdom are outlawing the bows “on the basis that they are enormous, obnoxious, and tend to breach uniform policy.” Some parents are on board, stating that the competition to buy children the fanciest bow could lead to bruised egos and thinned wallets. Others say they even cause bullying.
A post shared by JoJo Siwa (@itsjojosiwa) on Apr 14, 2017 at 7:02pm PDT
As one mother explained via the Telegraph: “Yes, they fueled a type of bullying, so the head teacher banned them outright. Fortunately my daughter thought they looked ridiculous, so was never drawn into that particularly hideous fad.”
@leonardhudsonuk #jojobows shouldn't be banned. It doesn't stop kids from learning. It also makes them look tidy. No harm being done at all
— Shez (@SheridanAlcock) March 4, 2017
Siwa herself has weighed in on the controversy her bows are causing for her less famous peers across the world. She says the bans are simply a “very bad thing.” Still, she encourages her young fans to abide by the dress codes. “Follow the rules; it’s very unfortunate if your school is banning them,” she said.
For her, the JoJo bow is “more than just a hair accessory, it is a symbol of power, confidence, believing-ness.” Unfortunately, some children just will have to find their power, confidence, and believing-ness without all the frills.
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