Catcalls Aren’t Compliments
It’s time to be clear: catcalls aren’t compliments. They’re not flirty. They’re not playful. They’re not harmless. They are intrusive, unwelcome, and often a tool of control and intimidation.
At Daughter of Fire, we’ve always believed fashion can carry a message - not just in what you wear, but in what you stand for. That’s why we’ve designed our new “Cat Calls Aren’t Compliments” tee. Cute? Yes. Cheeky? Absolutely. Deadly serious about consent? You bet.
What is catcalling?
Catcalling is a form of street harassment. It’s the unsolicited whistles, honks, sexual comments, and so-called “compliments” shouted at people (usually women) in public spaces. It’s framed as flattery, but in reality, it’s about power, not admiration.
People who defend catcalling often fall back on the same tired myths: that it’s “just a compliment,” or worse, that it’s the woman’s fault. They claim she “provoked” the attention by wearing short skirts, fitted tops, or anything deemed “provocative.”
Let’s be clear: what someone wears is never an invitation to be harassed. Clothing is not consent. Expressing yourself through style doesn’t give anyone permission to violate your boundaries.
This excuse is nothing more than victim-blaming, shifting responsibility away from harassers and onto the people they target. And it’s exactly this culture of blame that keeps catcalling alive.
Why this message matters
For too long, society has normalised street harassment. We’ve been told to “smile,” “take it as a compliment,” or “just ignore it.” But the truth is, harassment is never a compliment. It’s a violation of boundaries. It’s an assertion of power over someone else. And every time it happens, it chips away at someone’s sense of safety.
By wearing our tee, you’re sending a message: I see you, I hear you, and I won’t stay silent. It’s a conversation starter, a statement piece, and a tiny act of rebellion against a culture that excuses harassment.
The reality of catcalling
Street harassment is everywhere, with catcalling being one of the most common forms. These aren’t one-off moments - they’re part of a system that normalises objectification and reduces women to their bodies. Studies show over half of Australian women have experienced sexual harassment in their lifetimes (1).
Here’s the truth: it’s not about you, it’s about power. Catcalling is about asserting control in public spaces, making you feel small in places where you should feel free.
Catcalling starts young
Catcalling doesn’t wait until you’re an adult. Many of us remember it beginning in our early teens. I have memories of being catcalled as young as 13 - and, disturbingly, it happened more often when I was underage than once I turned 18.
That’s the truth no one wants to say out loud: catcalling is not flattery, it’s predatory. It targets girls before they’ve even grown into women. It’s a reminder that harassment isn’t about attraction, it’s about power, entitlement, and control.
The impact it leaves behind
The echo lingers long after the words are gone. Studies have found that women who experience street harassment often report ongoing fear, anger, anxiety, hypervigilance, and lower self-worth. Many alter their behaviour just to feel safe - changing routes, clothing, or avoiding being out alone.
This is not harmless. This is not a compliment. This is a culture that tells women and gender-diverse people their bodies are public property.
Feminism can be fun - and fierce
Yes, feminism can be playful. Yes, fashion can be sassy. Yes, you can make a statement in a cute tee shirt while saying something serious. That’s the spirit behind this design: kittens, knives, and a punchy reminder that your boundaries are not optional.
Wear it to protests. Wear it to coffee. Wear it wherever you want to remind the world that your autonomy is yours alone.
You are not alone
If you, or someone you know, has experienced harassment or sexual violence, support is available. You deserve to be heard and safe:
1800RESPECT – 24/7 support for sexual assault, domestic or family violence: 1800 737 732
Lifeline Australia – 24/7 crisis support: 13 11 14
