A female tradesworker has sparked a debate online after questioning workplace rules. She asked why male workers can go shirtless on hot days while she cannot, calling it unfair.
Shianne Fox, a landscaper from Sydney, Australia, went viral for pointing out what she sees as a double standard. She shared her frustration that men are allowed to remove their shirts in extreme heat, but women like her aren’t given the same option.
Shianne, known as “The Bikini Tradie” online, posted about her experience on social media. She said she asked her boss if she could take off her shirt while working—just like her male coworkers do on hot days.
She explained that this happened during a 40-degree Celsius day when keeping cool was difficult.
In a TikTok video, Shianne said, “It’s 40 degrees today, and I have to wear my shirt while all the guys don’t.”
She then added, “It’s a double standard. It’s unfair, and I’m over it. I just want the same rules as the guys, but they say I’d be a ‘distraction’.”
Shianne believes it shouldn’t be seen as distracting because it’s just a “natural thing.”
During an interview, she shared more about her thoughts. She said, “When you work in trades, a lot of the guys take their shirts off. I thought it was only fair if I could too. I don’t see a problem with it.”
She also said, “If people find it distracting, that’s on them. It’s time to grow up.”
Shianne has worked in male-dominated industries for years.
She also creates content for an adult platform but said she speaks out because there aren’t many women in trades.
“I’ve been working in trades for four years. Maybe if I put myself out there, more women will consider joining,” she explained.
Her post got mixed reactions. Some agreed with her, saying women should have the same choice as men. Others felt uncomfortable with her working without a shirt.
Some female tradesworkers also spoke out, saying her approach doesn’t represent them.
Women are still a minority in blue-collar jobs, making up about 20% of the workforce. The debate highlights ongoing conversations about workplace fairness and inclusion.
