I find the psychology underpinning this quite fascinating and have debated it a few times with a number of people. I agree that everyone should be allowed to wear what they want — but have noticed a tendency towards subjectivity that goes like this.

a) I was wearing X and someone said I look great. Because that person is attractive in my eyes I have taken this as a compliment and have internalised it as non-threatening.

b) I was wearing X and someone said I look great. Because that person is not attractive to me, I have taken this to be an insult and have internalised it as a threat.

You can see it happening on Instagram, with people being ‘thanked’ or labelled ‘creepy’ (and usually ignored) dependent on their relative attractiveness and/or popularity.

As you’ve said, people should wear what they like and be comfortable and free from harassment, they should also be aware of confirmation bias and their own flawed subjective thought process.

Thanks for writing an enjoyable (and unique) article.