Leggings: To Wear or Not to Wear?

One particular item of clothing has become increasing popular, especially on campus. At Linn-Benton you can’t walk across the quad without seeing someone wearing leggings. That’s right, leggings are everywhere.

“[Leggings are a] popular dress fashion trend for women right now, and seem to have replaced denim as a casual wear staple. Leggings also give winter short skirt wearers an option to keep their legs warm,” said Chareane Wimbley-Gouveia, Learning Center coordinator.  

Leggings aren’t what they use to be. During the Renaissance period leggings were called hose. Hose were worn by both men and women. Wearing hose showed your status in society.  

They are many types of leggings such as: standard, jeggings, thermal leggings, stirrup leggings, and footed leggings.

In the 80’s, pop singers such as Cyndi Lauper and Madonna and films such as “Flashdance” brought the leggings into mainstream. It wasn’t until 2006 that leggings reclaimed their fame and took over the scene.

“Personally I always make sure my leggings fit correctly, so that they’re appropriate for wearing out in public,” said SLC President Adelaine Carter.

The way in which leggings are worn have been misconstrued by passer-byers. Instead of being an article of clothing to keep warm, they have become a provocative item.

“As far as wearing leggings to school I think it’s perfectly acceptable. They are a warm comfortable clothing option that’s perfect for a cold and rainy climate like Oregon,” said Carter.

Wearing leggings in the 21st century aren’t what they once were. Some say they do serve a purpose regardless of the provocative nature. Whether you choose to wear them for comfort, style or just because, you should consider what others see when you wear them in public. Each day we are criticized by the people around us. It’s unintentional, and yet it’s happens.

“Leggings are fine to wear as long as you don’t wear them as pants,” said student Rebecca Chandler.

“Leggings are fine with boots or Uggs,” said previous student Lex Porter.

Women have fought for equality and not to be objectified, but when you wear barely anything down below you’re asking for the unwanted attention. Dress for the career you want, and don’t attract the wrong kind of attention. However if your career doesn’t require business attire and actually requires leggings then you’re all set for success.  

Vape Pen Debate at Linn-Benton

Over the winter break a new policy was implemented at Linn-Benton. Students and faculty are no longer allowed to use vape pens on campus.

“From the College side of this argument, and I have observed this first hand, Vape users are disruptive to classroom, study, and culinary environments,” said Bruce Thompson, safety and loss prevention.

Currently Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Lane Community College, and Chemeketa Community College prohibit the use of vape pens on campus.

“I don’t think vape pens need to be treated like cigarettes as far as having a designated vaping area,” said previous student Johnie Stiltner.

Vape pens are to be used at the designated smoke shacks located around campus by McKenzie Hall, Takena Hall, English Language & Culture Institute, Luckiamute Center, and behind the service building.

“I do not like being forced to use the smoking area because the smell of cigarettes makes me nauseous,” said student Dennis Hill.

The use of vape pens is considered to be a healthier alternative over tobacco cigarette smoking according to many retailers, however considering that they are a new product there is little evidence proving a “healthy” alternative.

“To me vape pens are trading one evil for another,” said SLC President Adelaine Carter.  

Vaporizers use water, e-liquids, or juices that are made up of four ingredients: Propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, food-grade flavors, and the optional nicotine.

“Smokeless does not mean harmless,” said Chareane Wimbley-Gouveia, Learning Center coordinator.

The debate of whether vaping is cleaner for you and the environment because it does not emit second-hand smoke or nasty smells continues.

“The smell is barely there when someone uses a vape pen compared to cigarettes,” said student Christie Gangewer.

Currently the FDA does not regulate vape pens, according to vaporizer-pen.org. There are no laws with regards to the materials and ingredients that must be used in production of vape pens. It is also said that the odds of vaporizers helping you quit smoking overnight are very low.

There have been cases of users being allergic to one of the ingredients in e-liquids called Propylene Glycol.

“I think vape pens are a cool tool for people who like to use them and are way less invasive than cigarettes,” said student Kamran Ahmed Mirza.

Overall vape pens are legal and a consenting adult can engage in their use.

“Vape pens are a personal choice,” said student Nikki Ponce.