It used to be frowned upon that women wore pants - they didn't really become acceptable or common until the 1920s. Even though we've been wearing pants for decades now, the phrase "wearing the pants in the relationship" is still hanging around. Women interpret this phrase as being strong and fierce. Men see it as a form of emasculation; an expression that the man in the relationship is lesser because the woman is stronger. I prefer to think that there are men out there who aren't doormats but rather, who appreciate having a strong woman as their partner. If you recognize these signs, you probably are a pants wearer!
1. Played Hard to Get
During the courting and dating period, you were the one who was perfectly happy to stay single and played hard to get. You made him work for it!
2. No Labels
He keeps pushing for your relationship to be clearly defined, but to be honest you’re just not that in to labels and want the relationship to take its own course without pressure.
3. High Libido
You are always the partner who likes to initiate sexy times whenever possible, almost as if he likes to wait for you to suggest it!
4. Waiter Control
Whenever you go out to a restaurant, you find that the waiter or waitress will always direct their questions and attention to you rather than to your partner. Subliminal power!
5. He Texts First
You are always on the receiving end of the text messages to start off a conversation, as if he always wants to check in, but you’re happy to be independent during the day.
6. He’s More Emotional
Contrary to normal gender stereotypes, your boyfriend is actually the one who gets more emotional about things while you remain the strong, silent type.
7. Big Spoon
You might be the girlfriend, but you always like to be the big spoon when it comes to night-time cuddles; more control that way!
8. You’re Protective
You love your man and you’re not afraid to show it, ready to throw down with anybody who dares to disrespect or overstep the mark!
9. Get Your Way
You are used to getting your own way, not because you are a brat, but simply because you have the more dominant personality.
10. Vulnerability
You always feel a little bit awkward and out of place when you need to show your softer, more vulnerable side; you are more used to being the strong one.
11. People Don’t Get It
You can be sure that you wear the trousers if you hear people saying that they don’t ‘get’ your relationship, it’s just because it doesn’t conform to the traditional gendered roles!
12. Unapologetic
You might earn more money than your boyfriend does, but rather than being shy about it, you own your success and love that you are in a great position.
13. He Talks about the Future
It’s your boyfriend that is always talking about the future and trying to lock you down in to a plan. You’re quite happy to live in the moment.
14. Parents Love Him
Your parents love him and are always emphasizing how perfect you are for each other; probably because he’s one of the few guys who don’t mind sitting in the passenger seat!
15. Assert Your Independence
Just because you are in love with your man, it doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your independence and stop doing separate things that you enjoy alone.
16. Strong Partnership
Above all of the lovey-dovey, romantic elements of your relationship, you appreciate that you and your man have a strong partnership that feels solid and secure.
17. You’re Reading This
Finally, the fact that you are even reading this must hint that you know you wear the trousers to start with! Would you be reading this if you didn’t think that in any way? Even a little bit!?
I hope you can see there's a difference between wearing the pants and not letting him wear them. It's about being in control, not controlling. And that means you shouldn't have to apologize for being strong!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does 'wearing the pants' in a relationship mean?
- It's a phrase that means one person has more control or takes more of the lead in the relationship. Think of it like they have more say in decisions and how things go.
- How can I tell if I'm the one who wears the pants in my relationship?
- Ask yourself if you're the one making most of the decisions, big or small. Do you usually get your way, or do you steer where the relationship goes? If so, it's a good sign you might be the one wearing the pants.
- Is it bad if my girlfriend wears the pants in our relationship?
- Not necessarily! It really depends on how you both feel about it. If you're both happy and it works for you, then there's nothing wrong with it. Relationships are all about balance and what feels right to both people.
- How can I wear the pants in a relationship as a woman?
- Just be confident, assertive, and clear about what you want. Communicate openly and make sure your partner respects your opinions and decisions. It's all about being yourself and not being afraid to take charge.
- Can both partners wear the pants in a relationship?
- Absolutely! Ideally, both partners should have equal say and be able to lead when needed. It's about teamwork and supporting each other, not about one person always taking control.