Theresa May’s Short Hemline Is Freaking British People Out

People in a position of power are always closely scrutinized, but should their sense of style be up for inspection? Since Theresa May took on the role of prime minister of the United Kingdom earlier this year, it’s not just her policies that have been judged — but also her wardrobe choices (an issue that her predecessor, David Cameron, probably didn’t have to deal with).

At the Pride of Britain Awards, held on Monday night in London and aired on television Tuesday, the politician was condemned for her outfit, a simple navy dress. So why was her ensemble such a talking point? The program’s viewers took issue with the length and cut of May’s piece because it fell above the knee and was sleeveless.

According to social media, it seems, once you reach a certain age you shouldn’t show off such areas of your body.

This isn’t the first time May’s made headlines because of her outfits. She’s bizarrely infamous for leopard print kitten heels (her preference for them was even addressed during a trade union conference).

However, the PM’s not bothered by the remarks. “I have grown used to the focus on my clothes and my shoes,” May told the Telegraph. “As a woman I know you can be very serious about something and very soberly dressed and add a little bit of interest with footwear.”

By no means is May the first powerful female figure who’s shocked the British public with her fashion sense. Back in June, Samantha Cameron caused a stir at the Queen’s 90th birthday service by wearing a sleeveless dress. The L.K. Bennett number ruffled some feathers for not boasting any sleeves — as traditionally people dress modestly when in a place of worship.

Across the pond, in the United States, first lady Michelle Obama courted similar criticism when she was pictured in her first official portrait baring her toned arms.

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