Home > Do Guys Liked Being Called Baby or Babe? A Detailed Answer

Do Guys Liked Being Called Baby or Babe? A Detailed Answer

If you’re wondering whether a guy likes to be called baby or babe, this depends on who he is. If he is a close friend and not a boyfriend, the answer is probably not.  It’s not hard to imagine why, as he would think that you have feelings for him and won’t know how to properly act.

This article not only takes a look at this, but some additional information too, like what guys like to be called in relationships, and whether baby or babe is the more romantic name. Read ahead for more information.

Do Guys Liked Being Called Baby or Babe?

As mentioned, the answer to this depends on who the guy is. If he is someone that you are romantically seeing, he would definitely not have a problem with either of the two names. And which of the two that he prefers would depend on him – ‘babe’ is the more colloquial option, which he may like.

But if he’s just a friend, he might feel uncomfortable with you using the two names, as you’re using a nickname that’s reserved for intimate partners.

happy-couple-holding-hands-while-walking

Is Baby or Babe More Romantic?

I generally would say that ‘baby’ is more romantic. It is more formal, and would make the occasional seem more special when you say it in contrast to just ‘babe’. But also, ‘babe’ is commonly used as a compliment. So, using ‘baby’ is the more romantic option.

For instance, someone can say that you look like a ‘babe’ to imply that you look good. Of course, the answer to the question depends on what your partner likes too. If your partner prefers the latter more, it would be more romantic when you use it.

Can a Guy Tell Whether You Like Him?

If you have been calling a guy that you’re into babe or baby, he probably suspects that you have feelings for him.  The only way around this would be if you start calling everyone around you as either babe or baby too. This would make it seem like they are terms of endearment that you like using, so he would not feel that special.

But also, your behavior can tell a guy know whether you have feelings for him. For example, if you compliment him more often, touch his arm or leg during conversations, and make way more eye-contact when speaking to him too.

How Can You Tell Whether Your Boyfriend Doesn’t Like a Nickname?

You can tell if he does not like a certain nickname by his body language. For instance, he may shrug away when you call him the name that you think he does not like. You of course would know that he does not like a name if he acts shy when you use it in front of his friends and family.

And you would know how he feels if he tries to make you stop calling him the name. He may have casually brought up another nickname that you ended up ignoring.

romantic-couple-outdoors

What Do Guys Like to Be Called in Romantic Relationships?

The answer to this question is kind of tricky. Because some guys like certain names compared to others. As mentioned, ‘baby’ is a very romantic name that you can use for your partner. If you want to make things a bit more casual, you can call him babe instead. Another iteration of babe/baby is ‘bubba’ – it’s of course not as common but I think that it has a nice ring to it.

At the same time, you could call him ‘love’. It is a common term of endearment that both genders use for each other. What’s also nice is that you can use the term outside of relationships with your friends and family.

If you’re not a fan of the above options, you can go ahead and call your partner a special nickname that you may have made. This would make things more personal, as you would have a codename for him that is just between the two of you.

What does it Mean When a Guy Calls You Baby?

If the two of you are dating or have been romantically together for a while, him calling you baby would not be a surprise. He is calling you it as he wants you and the world to know that you mean a lot to him.

However, if the two of you are not dating, then why he may be calling you the name is a bit tricky. There is a chance that he likes you and is trying to signal it across.

If he does have feelings, there are a couple of tell-tell signs to look out for, like him constantly complimenting you, touching your arms or legs during conversations, and making more eye contact than usual.

You will of course know whether a guy has feelings if you speak to his friends about this. As you can imagine, however, this would be easier said than done. But you can get a direct answer to your question, so you would not have to overthink whether he has feelings or not.

Or baby could be a term of endearment for loved ones that he picked up that he thought was cool. You can be sure that this is the case if you notice that he calls everyone else the name too.

How Do I Start Calling My Boyfriend Babe?

‘Babe’ is pretty casual so you don’t have to worry about throwing it in conversations that much. In my opinion, the best way to include it would be by asking him a question, and then excluding his name but calling him babe instead.

You can of course ask him whether he would like to be called the name, and then ease into it during conversations. As mentioned, ‘baby’ is a more intense version that you can try. It is not as casual, so you will likely find it harder to use in sentences when you are with your friends and family.

Is Babe the Same as Bae?

Yes, Bae is another term for babe. It is a shortened form that people mostly use when texting – you rarely hear couples call each other it in person. I am not the biggest fan of calling someone ‘bae’ as you can just go with babe instead. Also the nickname can sound kind of childish.

couple-riding-bikes

What Word(s) Can I Say Instead of Babe?

In my opinion, the best names that you can use would be darling, sweetheart and love. I touched on ‘love’ earlier, as it’s pretty popular. I think it is the best from the three. If the two of you have been seeing each other for a while, you can think back to when you first met and use a nickname that is reminiscent of a memory or experience that you share.

Is it weird to call a guy babe?

The answer to this depends. If he is someone that you are not romantically seeing, then yes, calling him babe would be weird. However, if he is your boyfriend or partner, then calling him babe would be perfectly normal. You are calling him this and not his name as you want the world to know that he means a lot to you.

You are probably asking this question as you have just started dating and are self-conscious about having to call him babe. But remember what I mentioned above that you can have a conversation with him beforehand and ask what he would like to be called.

You will know what types of names he would like in the process. It especially would not be weird if he calls you them too. Most likely, he has a special nickname like ‘darling’ or ‘sweetheart’ that he uses for you.

Final Thoughts

The answer to the question depends on who the guy is. If he is someone that you are romantically interested in, he would have no problem with you calling him babe. In fact, he might enjoy it as it makes things more special, as you have special names for each other now.

You could also go for one of its other versions, like baby. Going with nicknames like these is always smart as this would strengthen your relationship with each other.

Hopefully you found all of the points that were run through useful.

How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?

As you may have found out, there is more to your wedding dress than the original price. You often have to get the dress altered so that it will fit you perfectly.

If you are curious about how much this will cost, then here is a breakdown:

How Much Will It Cost to Alter a Wedding Dress?

A single alteration on a wedding dress can cost anywhere between $40 and $1000 – the total cost of the alterations can be significantly higher – the cost of the alterations can depend on the type of alteration, the dress design, the material, the seamstress, and more.

How Much to Hem a Wedding Dress?

On average, it can cost between $120 and $250 to hem your wedding dress.

Trying wedding dress

This is one of the most requested alterations on a wedding dress. This is because most bridal shops will make the dress longer to ensure that it will fit most people.

The reality is that there is no such thing as a simple hemming alteration. For one thing, you rarely have to just take the hem in. Keep in mind that making any changes to the hem can alter the shape of the skirt.

If this is the case, then other alterations must be made to the skirt to maintain its original shape.

There are other things that can cause this project to increase in price. The more layers you have on the dress, if there is any lace, if any portion needs to be re-beaded, all of this can result in a higher fee.

How Much Does It Cost to Add Cups to the Dress?

This is another common request. If you don’t want to wear a bra with your wedding dress then cups are the solution for you. These ensure that you have the appropriate amount of support.

Now, this is one of the easiest alterations to make as long as the design of your dress accommodates it. The insertion of cups should cost you no more than $50.

How Much Does It Cost to Add Straps to the Dress?

At a glance, you may assume that adding straps to your wedding gown is an easy task. And, in some cases it is.

If the design of your dress accommodates the addition of sleeves and if the straps are simple, then it may cost as little as $50 to add the straps.

On the other hand, if the gown design has to be changed or if the straps boast a complex design, then this will be more work for the seamstress. Thus, the cost can go up to $250.

How Much Will Sleeve Alterations Cost?

When it comes to the sleeves on your wedding dress, you may want to either shorten the sleeves or add sleeves to the dress.

Shortening the sleeves can be a bit more work than most people realize. This is why it can cost around $40 to $80 per sleeve.

In addition to shortening the sleeve, you must ensure that the shape and dimensions of the rest of the sleeve are maintained. If there is any beading or other design on the sleeve, then the seamstress may need to add these details once the sleeves have been shortened.

Adding sleeves to a gown can be a costly option. It can be around $200 to $400 in total.

This is because you have to find the same material or use lace or chiffon which can be tricky to work with. In some cases, the original design of the dress allows you to make these changes without any issue. In other instances, the design has to be altered before the sleeves can be added.

How Much Does It Cost to Take the Sides In?

Many people like to buy a dress that is just a little bigger so that it can be altered to fit them perfectly. If so, you will need to take the sides in of your dress. This also needs to be done for people who have a smaller waist than their bust and hips.

If the dress is rather loose and the material isn’t too tricky, it should only cost you around $30 to take the sides in.

You should be aware that it is rarely that simple. For one thing, the thicker or more delicate material needs a greater amount of care. This is especially true if there are any additional elements like beading or lace.

It is also rarely as easy as simply taking the side in. You may also need to change the shape of the bust and even the skirt so that the final shape looks more natural.

How Much Do Bustle Alterations Cost?

Interestingly enough, most wedding gowns don’t come with a bustle. Instead, these elements are added to ensure that it is easier to move around with the train of your dress.

Wedding dresses at Bridal boutique

The longer or wider the train is, the more bustles that will be needed. If your train isn’t that long or wide, then it may cost as little as $40.

On the other hand, if you need numerous bustles added, the cost can go all the way up to $150.

You should be aware that some seamstresses may attempt to add more bustles than you need just to drive the price up. Due to this, you should always step in to decide just how many you will actually require prior to alterations.

Bride Alterations Price List

Here is what the average price list may look like for wedding dress alterations:

  • Adding Straps: $50 to $250
  • Adding Sleeves: $200 to $400
  • Shortening Sleeves: $40 to $80
  • Altering the Neckline: $250+
  • Bra Cups/Chest Area: $20 to $40
  • Side Seams: $30 to $100 for each side
  • Altering the Back: $200+
  • Turning Zipper into Corset: $150
  • Hem: $120 to $250
  • Bustle: $40 to $150

How Much Will the Alterations to a Wedding Gown Cost?

The cost for an individual alteration can cost between $40 and $1000, which means that the total cost can be much higher – the price for each alteration is determined by the alterations, the design of the dress, the materials of the dress, the materials used, the seamstress, and more.

David’s Bridal Alterations Cost

If you are buying a dress at David’s bridal shop, you are likely going to need at least some alteration. It is the only way to ensure that your dress will suit you perfectly.

Of course, forewarned is forearmed. Here is all that you need to know about how much the various alterations are going to cost you:

How Much Will David’s Bridal Alterations Cost?

The alteration for a wedding dress at David’s Bridal can be between $20 to over $200 per alteration – the total cost may be significantly higher – the cost for each alteration will depend on the material and design of the dress as well as the complexity of the task.

An Average Price List for David’s Bridal Alterations

The first thing to bear in mind is that the following prices are an estimated cost. The actual cost can vary. To get a better idea of how much a single or total alteration will cost, you will need to speak to seamstresses at David’s salon.

  • Shoulder alterations: $20+
  • Add bra cups: $25+
  • Shorten sleeves: $35+
  • Side alterations: 35+
  • Over Bustle: $35 for three and $5 for each bustle after this
  • Under Bustle: $50 for three and $7 for each one after this
  • Hem alterations: $75+
  • Adding corset back: $250+

Wedding Dress Rack

How Much Do Bra Cups Cost?

Now, bra cups are one of the most affordable alterations to get done on your dress. These are a good option if you don’t want to wear on a wedding day but still want some support.

For the most part, inserting bra cups into a dress is fairly straightforward, which is why the price is low.

The only time that the cost of this alteration will go up is if you need to order in plus size cups. If the bodice of the dress has a very specific design and the insertion of the bra cups needs to take this into account, then the price may go up once more.

How Much Does It Cost to Shorten Sleeves?

This is another alteration that may or may not be straightforward depending on the kind of sleeves.

If the sleeves are made from solid material, then the seamstress should be able to shorten it for you without any issue at all.

On the other hand, if the sleeves are made of lace or something equally delicate, then it is going to take more time and effort for the seamstress. As a result, the price is going to go up.

This will also happen if there is any beading or embellishment on the sleeves.

For one thing, the seamstress has to be a lot more careful about how the sleeve is taken in. For another, they may need to remove the embellishments and then re-sew them onto the sleeve in a particular pattern.

In this case, the price can go up quite a bit.

How Much Does It Cost to Take the Sides In?

Taking in sides is often the cheapest option as it is simpler. That being said, this does depend on the bodice of the dress.

If the bodice is made of thick and unyielding material, then the seamstress is going to have to spend more time taking the sides in.

It can also be quite tricky to do this if the much of the bodice is made from lace or another kind of material that will tear easily or show sew marks.

In some instances, it isn’t as simple as merely taking the sides in. This is because taking in the sides may alter the shape of the bodice.

If this happens, then the seamstress will need to make other alterations to guarantee that the original design of the bodice is maintained.

Needless to say, this will require more expertise, work, and time and you will have to pay a higher price for it.

How Much Does It Cost to Let the Sides Out?

In other instances, the bride wants to let the sides out so that the bodice will be bigger. If the alteration is minor, then it may be a fairly simple procedure.

However, if the bodice needs to be let out quite a bit, then the seamstress may need to add some additional material, likely in the form of paneling.

Here, you may need to pay for the additional material use. Also, if the panels will be made of lace or something that is equally difficult to sew with, the cost is going to go up for you.

How Much Does the Over Bustle Cost?

It is likely that you are most familiar with the over bustle, also known as the American bustle. Now, this kind of bustle is fairly easy for the seamstress to manage, although this will depend on the design and material of the dress as well as how long your train is.

The first three loops for your bustle will cost you $35. For every addition after this, you will be charged $5.

The thing about the bustle is that there are some seamstresses that like to add more and more bustles to the dress as they can end up making quite a bit of extra cash. Due to this, they may try to convince you add several more than you need.

As a result, you need to think about this carefully – it isn’t just about the price but also about convenience. After all, you don’t want your bridesmaids having to spend ages trying to fix the train to the various bustles, do you?

When you are in your initial fitting, try various styles and positions to determine the least number of bustles you will need to get the job done.

How Much Do Under Bustles Cost?

You may not be as familiar with this type of bustle – it is also known as the French bustle. This does cost more, but the additional cost can be worth it if the design suits your dress.

Once again, this should be decided at the fitting. Have your seamstress show you both options so that you can decide which one looks better.

The first three bustles cost $50 and you are charged $7 for every bustle after this.

As with the over bustle, make sure that you aren’t being convinced that you need more bustles than is actually necessary.

In this instance, having too many bustles can throw off the elegant appearance that the under bustle affords you.

How Much Do Hem Alterations Cost?

Hem alterations are one of the most commonly requested alterations. Nearly every bride needs to have the dress shortened at least a little.

Wedding dress shopping

The starting cost of a hem alteration is $75. This is because the cost will often depend on how complex this task is.

If the dress has a single layer and is made from satin or something similar, then the hemming will be fairly simple and can be done quickly.

On the other hand, if you have several layers, you are likely going to be charged for every layer. Also, if any or all of the layers are made from something like lace, you are going to be charged more for this as it is delicate work.

How Much Does It Cost to Alter the Back of the Dress?

Changing the back of the dress from a zipper or something similar to a corset back is a rather difficult task. It can be made all the more difficult if the bodice has a complex design or if it is made of something like lace.

Due to this, this is arguably one of the more expensive alterations that you can pay for at the bridal salon. It can start at $200 but can become pricier depending on any other changes need to be made.

Keep in mind that other alterations may need to be made to the bodice so that the shape and design looks good despite the addition of the corset back.

The upside is that adding a corset to the back may save you the cost and trouble of having to take the dress in or let it out if you lose or gain weight before your wedding.

How Much Will You Have to Pay for Alterations at David’s Bridal?

The cost of alterations can vary based on numerous factors – this includes the design of the dress, the material that it is made from, the complexity of the alterations, and more – on average, the cost of a single alteration may be anywhere from $20 to over $200.

What Does it Mean When a Girl Calls You Love? Here’s Everything to Know

If a girl calls you ‘love’, I’m sorry to disappoint, but she probably does not like you. This is a popular term of endearment that many people use. You will know this if you pay attention to the people she speaks to, as she probably calls them this too.

But if she does in fact have feelings for you, there are a couple of signs to look out for. This article not only takes a look at them, but some additional information that you might like.

What Does it Mean When a Girl Calls you ‘Love’?

As mentioned, ‘love’ is a term of endearment that most of the time means nothing. You can especially tell that a girl does not have feelings for you if she calls everyone else in her life ‘love’. But if it’s just you that she calls this, then you might be special.

You can tell if she likes you if she remembers the smallest details that you mention, has told her friends and family about you, and constantly makes eye contact during conversations – I’ve touched on more about this in the section below.

How Do You Know if A Girl Likes You?

If you suspect that a girl likes you, there are several tell-tell signs to look out for. This section runs through some of the most notable.

Let’s get to it.

couple-in-love

1.      She Makes Consistent Eye Contact

By far, the best sign to look for is consistent eye contact. If you notice that she makes more eye contact than usual, she probably has feelings for you. She wants you to show you that she is fully engaged in your conversations.

You can also tell whether a girl likes you if you catch her staring. She is admiring you, and you have accidentally caught her in the act.

2.      She Remembers the Smallest Details

Another major sign would be her making note of the smallest details that you mention. For instance, if you say that you like something, and then she gets it for you as a gift. It isn’t surprising why she’s doing this, as she wants you to know that she’s been paying attention.

3.      You Get Compliments

Of course, you can tell whether a girl likes you if she’s constantly complimenting you. This is something that is not exclusive to girls, as even guys do this when they have crushes. You should also look out for her touching your arm or leg while making compliments.

4.      You Make Her Nervous

While on the same vein as the point above, you will also know if a girl has feelings if she is nervous around you. This is as she has feelings and does not know how to act in your presence.

5.      Her Friends Know About You

If her friends and family know about you, the chances of her liking you are high. She’s been talking about you as you mean a lot. And she possibly can’t get you out of her head, which is why she’s been doing this.

How Do You Become Close with a Girl?

If there is a girl you like, there are a couple of tips that you can use to become close with her.

Let’s talk about them.

Girl Likes You

1.      Ask Her for Favors

Although you might not think it, asking her for favors can help you get closer. This is called the Benjamin Franklin effect, and is a known strategy that the former president used.

The favors don’t have to be too big, as something as small as asking for an eraser would work well. Remember to not abuse this effect too much, as she might find it strange. And she even might figure out what you are up to.

2.      You Share Her Interests

If she knows that you like the same things as her, she would want to get closer. To an extent, this would involve stalking her social media accounts. You can also ask any mutual friends what she likes. Along with mentioning that you like her interests during conversations, you can also post about them on social media. She will definitely reply back when she sees what you’ve posted.

3.      Tell Her Your Secrets

Another great tip would be to tell her your secrets. She would feel important. as you’re divulging this information to her. You would especially make her feel important if you use the earlier tip and frequently ask her for favors.

4.      Give Her Compliments

Just like her complimenting you is a sign that she likes you, you can use complimenting her as a tactic to get closer. She would feel more comfortable around you, which you can use to your advantage. I would suggest that you watch and don’t overdo it, however.

5.      Make Friends with Her Friends

Of course, you can get closer by being friends with her friends. The two of you would have mutual company, so you would see each other more often. Her friends might notice that you like her, and even try to set the two of you up too.

How Do You Confess Your Feelings to a Girl?

There are several tips and tricks that you can try when confessing your feelings to a girl. I’ve touched on the best in the section below.

1.      Wait for the Right Time

By far, the best tip would be to watch and wait for the right time. You want her to be in a good mood when you tell her about how you feel. This will be especially easy if you have mutual friends, as you can coordinate with them and find out when the right time would be.

2.      Practice Makes Perfect

Definitely practice what you are going to say before you confess your feelings. You would be able to figure the best points to get across. Practicing what to say would also help you avoid saying anything that could rub her the wrong way.

I would suggest that you write everything down, and then get a friend to read it. A mutual friend of hers that you are close to would be perfect, as they would really let you know what she would think.

3.      Have Some Confidence

You should confess your feelings to her in person. And remember to try and be as confident as possible, as this would make her see you in a positive light. If you are someone who struggles with their confidence, this may seem easier said than done. But you can fool her into thinking that you have good self-esteem by faking it till you make it.

Self-affirmations can also help you boost your confidence. All you would have to do is look in the mirror and repeat qualities about yourself that you like.

4.      Say What You Want in Person

Whatever you do, I would advise that you confess your feelings in person. This would show her that you’re serious, and that you are courageous. But as you would be confessing in person, what I mentioned earlier about waiting till the right time is especially important.

man-kissing-woman

Should You Confess Your Feelings to the Girl You Like?

Although you may like a girl and want to confess your feelings, you definitely should consider whether this would be smart. She may not be just any girl – she may be a coworker or someone else that may be off-limits.

So, you confessing that you like her may not end well. It especially would not end well if the two of you have to work together; she might not just reject your advances but also report you to the HR department for being inappropriate.

You should also avoid confessing your feelings if the two of you aren’t that compatible. Sure, she might feel the same way as you and want to date. However, this relationship may end badly in the future. You of course should not confess how you feel if she is an ex of a close friend or family member, as the two of you being together would make things very awkward for everyone that is around you.

Final Thoughts

As you saw from everything that was discussed, unfortunately, it does not mean that a girl likes you if she calls you ‘love’. This is something that many guys wonder. But at the end of the day, ‘love’ is just a term of endearment that many people use. You will especially know that she does not have feelings if you pay attention to her conversations with others, as she probably calls them ‘love’ too.

This guide not only took a look at this, but what you can keep an eye out for in case a girl does in fact like you. Some of the signs include her remembering the smallest details that you mention, and frequently complimenting you.

Are Moccasins Cultural Appropriation?

You may love the look and feel of moccasins but worry about whether wearing them will be considered a form of cultural appropriation. This is the article that set you straight.

Here is what you need to understand about the significance of moccasins and under what circumstances it would be considered cultural appropriation:

Is Wearing Moccasins a Form of Cultural Appropriation?

It is difficult to give a straightforward answer here – on the one hand, moccasins are a type of footwear that has originated from Native American tribes and don’t have cultural or symbolic meaning – however, buying designs copied from Native Americans without due payment is appropriation.

Why are Moccasins Problematic?

It is natural to wonder why moccasins are a form of cultural appropriation. After all, they are just shoes, right? They have no spiritual or cultural ties to Native Americans so what is wrong about wearing them?

colorful moccasins

On the one hand, you would be right. Wearing moccasins isn’t inherently a form of cultural appropriation. It is almost like wearing a pair of bejeweled sandals from Asia or the Middle East.

The problem is where the moccasins came from.

The majority of moccasins in the market aren’t from Native American designers or creators. Instead, they come from major brands and mass produced, commercialized companies.

These individuals took the designs from Native Americans, created their own version, and then sold it for exorbitant profit. In the meantime, the original creators never got any compensation for their work.

In this instance, the role of Native Americans in the creation of moccasins is completely erased. They don’t get any credit or any money.

Therefore, buying moccasins in this scenario is quite problematic.

The Current Issues with Appropriating Indigenous Cultures

Cultural appropriation is never good or acceptable. When it comes to indigenous cultures, though, it is in especially poor taste to borrow or steal right now.

This is because indigenous peoples are facing greater issues than ever before. One of the problems is the lack of clean water on reservations. To compound this, indigenous individuals are less likely to get access to the resources and funding that they need.

All the while, the cultural practices and lands of the indigenous peoples continue to be under attack, destroying traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Therefore, if you purchase moccasins from a company that exploits these individuals who are already facing so many issues, it is in very poor taste indeed.

Just imagine wearing indigenous footwear for fun or aesthetic reasons when Native Americans are struggling to hold onto their culture.

When are Moccasins Cultural Appropriation?

There are instances when moccasins can be straight up cultural appropriation.

One case is if you are wearing your moccasins as a costume. If you are pairing them with traditional dresses, headdress, etc. all to imitate or mock Native Americans or indigenous cultures, then it is certainly a form of cultural appropriation.

The other way that moccasins can be cultural appropriation is if you are wearing the moccasins as a part of indigenous or ‘boho’ look or vibe. These shoes aren’t meant to be a trend but rather treated with respect as they come from a culture outside of your own.

Not to mention, indigenous peoples have suffered greatly at the hands of colonizers and continue to experience discrimination and lack of rights. Therefore, wearing their clothes or accessories as a part of an aesthetic is incredibly problematic.

When Can You Wear Moccasins?

The best way to feel comfortable wearing moccasins is when they are purchased from Native American creators or designers. This is because you can guarantee that the funds are going to the right places. Also, as these designers have agreed to sell to you, you are less likely to be accused of appropriation.

pair of moccasins on the way

Always look for indigenous artists or creators. It is far more ethical when you buy from them ethically. Not only are you helping an authentic, independent, and local business owner, but you know precisely where the money is going.

As an added bonus, most of these materials are ethically sourced. As such, you will be getting items that are ecofriendly as well.

There are some vendors who work with such artists or creators. It is fine to purchase items from such vendors. Before you do so, though, it is important to research the vendors and make sure that the proceeds from the purchase is going to the right place.

It is also a good idea to use this opportunity to learn more about indigenous cultures, the issues they are facing, and what you can do to help them or raise awareness.

Are Moccasins a Form of Cultural Appropriation?

Moccasins aren’t always considered a form of cultural appropriation – if they are bought from indigenous designers, then they will not be considered as such – however, if they are bought from companies that exploit the culture or you wear them as a fad or a trend, then it is appropriation.

Are Balaclavas Cultural Appropriation?

Want to buy or wear a balaclava this winter but not sure of the cultural implications of doing so? Is wearing a balaclava considered a form of cultural appropriation or not?

Well, here is your guide to this delicate topic:

Are Balaclavas a Form of Appropriation?

Wearing a balaclava isn’t a form of appropriation as it is a head covering that is meant to keep you warm during the winter months – however there is a bigger conversation surrounding the privilege of wearing such coverings in public spaces.

Can Anyone Wear a Balaclava?

There are no restrictions to wearing a balaclava. This item of clothing originated in Eastern Europe and can be considered a core part of the clothing culture there.

Group of men wearing balaclavas

Nevertheless, Balaclavas don’t have cultural symbology. They are simply associated with such countries due to the extreme cold experienced during the winter months.

Due to this anyone, from any country, race, or ethnicity can wear a balaclava without issue.

If this is the case, then why have there recently been so many conversations about culture?

It is a complicated answer…

The Balaclava vs. Other Head Coverings

The Balaclava has recently become internet famous and is now the must-have accessory for the winter months.

The balaclava is all over social media, TikTok, in particular. You have young people modeling Balaclavas, showing others how to knit one themselves, and how to create an outfit around it.

In essence, the balaclava has become widely accepted now.

This rise in popularity has caused many people of the Muslim faith to muse about how unfair it is that balaclavas as seen as acceptable. This is despite the fact that many women who wear hijabs and other head coverings continue to face discrimination and even harassment.

In fact, in certain countries and cities, hijabs are banned in public. However, there aren’t any such restrictions about wearing a balaclava outdoors.

The reason that the balaclava has drawn ire is that the balaclava has European roots while the Islamic faith is associated with the Middle East and African countries.

The fact that the balaclava is accepted, and that the hijab is not, is a clear sign of racial favoritism. Due to this, many people are outraged that Caucasian individuals can wear a balaclava in public without any backlash while they can’t do the same while wearing a balaclava.

The Privilege of Wearing a Balaclava

There is also the fact that it is a privilege to wear a balaclava without facing any issues in public. After all, the balaclava is a head covering that covers most of your head and sometimes even part of your face.

This is sort of like a hoodie does. The problem that in many countries, brown or black men wearing hoodies is a sign that they are dangerous, in a gang, or likely to hurt someone else. These myths have been perpetuated despite the lack of evidence.

There have been instances of black and brown men being shot by the police and even members of their community simply because they have been wearing a hoodie.

However, when someone who is Caucasian wears a balaclava, they are not faced with the same kind of suspicion.

This is another reason that balaclavas have been coming under fire. It is not that there is anything wrong with this item of clothing. Instead, it has more to do with the fact that it is an accessory of privilege. It is only people who look a certain way that can wear the balaclava without issue.

Should You Wear a Balaclava?

Of course, what you are probably interested in is whether or not it is alright for you to wear a balaclava in public.

Green balaclava mask

Yes, it is as it has no real cultural ties to a particular nation or belief system. That being said, it is important to be aware of the privilege that you have to wear a balaclava.

It is also a good idea to be aware of your own attitudes towards people wearing hijabs and other cultural head coverings. If you see them being discriminated against or harassed either in public or online, it is best to stand up for them.

After all, they don’t enjoy the same privilege as you to wear whatever they want in public.

The other thing you may want to do is to wear the balaclava as it was intended – as a way to stay warm in the winter months. Do this as opposed to wearing it as a fashion accessory.

Is Wearing a Balaclava Cultural Appropriation?

No, wearing a balaclava isn’t a form of cultural appropriation and is largely seen as a type of clothing that protects you from the cold weather – however, wearing a balaclava when hijabs and hoodies for people of color is a contentious topic does create a system of privilege.

What is the Average Age Difference of Couples? Everything to Know

If you’re wondering what the average age difference of couples is, it is hard to say as specific countries give you different results. In America, there is normally a gap of around 3 years maximum. This guide not only takes a look at these statistics, but some additional information that you may like, such as does age affect a relationship, and the pros and cons of dating someone who is older.

What Is the Average Age Difference of Couples?

As mentioned, the answer depends on the specific country that you are looking at. In the United States, the average age gap for heterosexual couples is around 2.3 years of age.

In western countries in general, studies have shown that 8% of heterosexual couples have an age gap of 10 years or more, while 25% of homosexual couples and 15% of lesbian couples have age gaps of 10 years or more. Data from the United States also shows that in 85.1% of heterosexual relationships, it is the male who is older.

Culture comes into play when discussing age differences, especially when taking a look at developing countries. Chinese culture has superstitions about age difference – they say that it is bad luck to date someone who is 3-6 years younger or older than you are.

Why Are Age Gaps Frowned Upon in The West?

This is a more complex question that I wanted to look at. The truth is that most people do not care, unless the age gap is considerable, like by 10 years or more. They would also only care if it’s the woman that is the older one in the relationship. They care more about the woman being older because of societal norms.

Difference of Couples

It is almost always the man that is older in the west, so a woman taking this role can be strange. Plus, they would view these women as cougars as the only way they only would have been able to get the younger man is by sexualizing themselves. The west also frowns upon relationships where the man is decades older, as they think the man lured and trapped their female partner in.

What Is Considered a Big Age Gap?

In general, age gaps of around 10 years or more are considered big. This is a whole decade apart which means that there are a lot of differences in values, maturity and outlook. Plus, people will easily be able to tell that you are older if you are 10 years apart – you would have many differences.

Is A 20 Year Age Gap Acceptable?

Considering what that was mentioned about dating someone who is 10 years older, dating someone who is 20 years older is definitely not a good idea. You would be too incompatible. Of course, all this is pretty general. It all depends case by case. You may have found the love of your life who is 20 years older and that is fine.

Can An Older Woman Have a Successful Relationship with A Younger Man?

Apart from a few questionable people raising their eyebrows, there is nothing wrong with a younger man dating an older woman. It would not be a problem if you are younger than your partner. In general, these types of relationships can be successful as the woman will be more mature yet comforting which would make her wiser and able to handle situations better.

What Do You Do If You’re Insecure About Age in A Relationship?

If there is an age gap between you and your partner and you are embarrassed about it, this is completely normal. You will find the below points useful. It runs through some information to look out for. For starters, you’re probably projecting your feelings onto other people.

The truth is that no one really cares about what others think and are doing, so if you’re worrying that everyone is judging you, it’s just you projecting what you actually feel inside. Most of the time, people only judge if you are dating someone who is noticeably much older.

Plus, even if people are judging, it should not matter to you as you are with the love of your life. Age mostly has nothing to do with how successful your relationship would be so you should not pay them any mind.

wedding-couple-getting-married-in-central-park

Society has vastly changed too. So many things that used to be taboo or considered wrong are now a part of culture. Many people get married later in life now, so there are quite big age gaps between them and their younger partners. You don’t have to feel alone.

Of course, you can speak to a professional for help. They would guide you through how irrational your thoughts have been. You can go to therapy with your partner if you want to work this out.

How Do You Know If Your Partner Is the Right One?

As we have discussed, age doesn’t really matter in a relationship, unless your partner is older. However, there are a number of other factors that do affect it. Let’s talk about them.

Views and Values

Although you may think that the relationship that you and your partner share is good, it may not work out well in the end if you don’t share the same views and values. You will begin to fight, and you would especially get into a lot of disagreements if you ever have a child.

Family

Family is not a dealbreaker when it comes to a relationship, but it is definitely something that you should consider. You should keep in mind what your partner’s family is like, and more importantly, whether they are the type of people that you want in your life. They may have a criminal history or may just not be a good person.

Schedule

Of course, schedule is another factor to consider. There is no way the two of you would be able to have a healthy relationship if your schedules don’t let you spend much time together. You would gradually get less attention and feel unimportant. This would get bad once you have a child, as you would feel like your partner is not there in your lives.

Communication

In line with the above point, you should consider how the communication is like between you. You want to be in a relationship with someone that understands you clearly and vice versa. You should also be able to be fully comfortable around them to tell them whatever you are feeling.

Otherwise, they may end up pursuing their goals and dreams and not help you with yours as there was no communication about this front.

Love & Intimacy

If you feel like the intimacy has died in your relationship, then it might be time to end things. You need passion for true love, which you might find from somebody else.

How Do You Know You Are Ready to Get Married?

If you’re in a serious relationship and are wondering whether you should pop the question, this section will help. It runs through all the points to consider that will tell you whether it’s the right time to get married.

Let’s get to it.

bride-getting-married

You Are Financially Stable Enough

There is no way you should get married if you are not financially stable. You will be starting a life with another person, so you need to make enough money to live comfortably. Not only do you need a good income, but you need to make sure that you have job stability as well.

You Are Mature Enough

You also need to make sure that you are mature enough to spend your life with someone else. Also remember what a big commitment getting married is and ask yourself whether this is something that you’re ready for – you may still be immature and flake when you get with responsibilities.

You Have Found the Right One

If you are dating someone you think is the love of your life, then marrying them would not be a bad idea. You could pop the question and stay engaged for a couple of years so that you can lock things down.

You are Ready for It

If the above checks out, it might be a good time to get married if this is also something that you have been thinking about for a while. It would also be a good idea in case your partner has been talking about tying the knot to friends and family.

What Are the Benefits of Dating Someone Older?

I touched on a couple of benefits when dating someone who is older. Let’s get started.

Emotionally Mature Partner

One of the biggest pros of dating someone who is older is the fact that you would be dating a more mature person. So, you won’t have to worry about any petty arguments arising. As they are more mature, the relationship would be more interesting as they would guide you through certain situations.

You Don’t Have to Worry About Finances

As you are dating someone who is older than you, they are probably more financially stable. You won’t have to worry about being strapped for cash, as they most likely are doing quite well for themselves.

There is A Good Understanding

I personally am a big fan of dating someone older as these individuals tend to be wiser and smarter. So, they will also be more understanding and caring.

There is More Romantic

Lastly, older individuals tend to be more romantic. They have to compete with people your age, and they also have to worry about this if they are much older. So, they end up spoiling you and being very romantic.

What Are the Disadvantages of Dating Someone Older?

Just like there are advantages to this, there are also disadvantages that we have to talk about.

Let’s get to it.

They Can be Controlling

A common issue that many users face when dating older, especially if your partner is much older is that they are more controlling of you. Like I mentioned earlier, they have to compete with people your age so they probably are jealous and watching your every move. This can get toxic quickly so you should definitely keep this in mind.

There is Less Exciting

If you are dating someone who is especially older than you, then they may not share the same interests and values as you. It can be hard to start a family because of this.

As they do not share the same values, starting conversations with them, especially when the two of you are getting to know each other can be an issue. You might find that things are not that exciting either.

No Future

This point is not applicable unless you are dating someone who is very much older. I’m talking about potentially having no family with them. They may be too old to have children, so you would never be able to have kids.

You should also consider that they may not want to marry you as they see no point in this because of their age.

What is the Average Marriage Rate?

In case you want to take things further and tie the knot with your partner, I thought about wrapping this article up by touching on the average marriage rate. The answer is that it drastically differs depending on where you live. But in the United States, it was around 5.1 percent per 1000 in 2020.

Final Thoughts

In my ultimate guide, the average age for couples is 2.3 years. I also ran through some additional information that you may like, what factors affect a relationship (since age does not necessarily matter). Some of these factors include views and values, intimacy, and how busy your partner is.

In case you wish to date someone, who is older, this guide has got you covered. We have run through all the pros and cons of going this route.

Hopefully you found all the points discussed useful.

Are Headbands Cultural Appropriation?

Think headbands are cute but want to be sure that you are making an ethical decision before buying one? In particular, you may be wondering if headbands fall under the umbrella of cultural appropriation.

Here is everything that you need to know about contentious styles so that you can avoid any style issues in the future:

Is Wearing Headbands Considered Cultural Appropriation?

This does all depend on the hairband – most hairbands are culturally neutral and so, can be worn by anyone – however, turban headbands, wraps, and scarf headbands are typically associated with certain cultures and may be considered to be problematic by some.

What Type of Headbands May Be Fall Under Cultural Appropriation?

These days, there are more headband styles ever before. However, what you may think is a cute new style may actually have been around for quite some time.

Girl Wearing Red Headband

The only reason that you may not have seen it before is because it has only been recently introduced into mainstream fashion.

As there are more and more headband styles being released every day, it can be tricky to know precisely which ones fall under the category of cultural appropriation. That being said, there are a couple of styles that you should be aware of.

This includes headwraps, turban headbands, and scarf headbands.

Why Can the Headwrap Be Considered Cultural Appropriation?

This is a very wide headband – one that can cover most of your head and hair. The style comes from the sub Sahara region of African and so has deep cultural ties there.

There is also a more troubling history of headwraps in the US. Enslaved people often wore them to keep the hair out of their face while working in the fields or houses. Due to this, it is seen as quite insensitive for someone who isn’t of African descent to wear such wraps.

Now, it can be rather difficult to know when a headband falls under the category of headwrap. Some headbands are simply quite wide and these aren’t considered cultural appropriation.

However, if the headband covers most of the head and can be knotted at either the top of the head or behind the head.

You should also watch out for ones in very bright colors as these are quite traditional in Africa. Also steer clear of anything that may fall under the category of ‘tribal’ print.

Why Can Scarf Headbands Be a Form of Cultural Appropriation?

Once again, not all scarf headbands may be seen as cultural appropriation. Thin ones, those that mimic vintage driving scarfs, or those that resemble bandanas are all safe for you to wear.

Thicker ones that look like scarves that look like the ones that people in Arab countries and Africa wear, however, will be considered cultural appropriation.

This is because these headbands are considered to be integral elements of these cultures. They may be worn to important or celebratory events.

You should also be careful of scarf headbands that are similar to headscarves worn by people who follow the Muslim, Jewish, and Orthodox Christian faiths.

As these are more religious symbols rather than cultural ones, you may imagine that you can’t be accused of cultural appropriation.

You should bear in mind that these symbols should be respected, though. Not only are they elements of people’s faith, but in many cases are guardians of women’s modesty.

There is also the fact that many women have been bullied for wearing such head coverings and have been bullied for their faith as well.

Therefore, to wear such a thing as an accessory isn’t taking into account that many people have to fight for their right to don their scarf.

Are Turban Headbands Cultural Appropriation?

Then there are turban headbands. If this type of headband is thin and made of a material like velvet, then it should be fine for you to wear.

Headband shop

However, if the width of it is quite thick, it is made of cotton or similar material, and is of vibrant colors, then it may be considered cultural appropriation.

You should also keep in mind to never wear the headband low, over your forehead. This is how people in different African countries wear their turban.

Being Wary of Boho Headbands

You should always watch out for headbands that are referred to as boho. These may be made out of real or fake leather, contain feathers, stones, and other embellishment.

Although boho may seem like a fashion or lifestyle term, this industry borrows heavily from other cultures – Native American, South Asian, African, etc. without any respect for where the styles were taken from.

In a similar manner you should also stay away from any headbands that may have cultural or tribal prints on them.

How Do You Know If Your Headband is Culturally Appropriating?

If you live with in a diverse population, then take note of the various headbands that people from all over the world wear. If you notice that a certain demographic wears a particular style, it is better to skip it.

Of course, you can also reach out to people who are a part of these cultural groups and get their opinion on it. This will give you a clearer idea of whether or not it is a good idea for you to wear it, particularly out in public.

You should also do some research into the various headbands that you would like to buy and wear. Understanding where they came from can give you insight into whether or not they are suitable options for you.

Never blindly follow a style simply because you see it online everywhere or because it is in high end fashion magazines. Both magazines and fashion houses have been engaging in cultural appropriation for a long time so they are not the best sources.

Can Headbands Be a Form of Cultural Appropriation?

You are safe with most fashion headbands but there are certain styles like headwrap hairbands, turban hairbands, and scarf headbands that may be considered cultural appropriation if you choose the wrong design – you should also think twice about boho headbands.

Is Henna Cultural Appropriation?

From Instagram to fashion magazines, it seems like henna is everywhere these days and you may want to dip your toe into the trend. Since henna is associated with specific cultures, though, would it be considered a form of cultural appropriation if you did?

Here is what you need to know about how henna fits into various cultures and whether using it is a form of cultural appropriation:

Is Henna Considered Cultural Appropriation?

Using henna on your body or getting a henna ‘tattoo’ isn’t a form of cultural appropriation as it is seen more as a process of adornment – however, you do need to be careful of the kind of designs or patterns that you get using henna.

Why is Using Henna Not Considered Cultural Appropriation?

Yes, henna is primarily used by Indian, Pakistani, African and Egyptian cultures. However, it was first used as a cooling agent.

When henna is applied to the body, it causes the skin to cool and to provide temporary relief. Due to this, people in hot climates and desert areas used to liberally apply it to the palms of their hands and soles of their feet.

Henna Tattoo on the body

This has been going on for over 5000 years!

People noticed that when henna was applied to the body and then left for some time before being washed off, it created a stain. It was then used for decorative purposes.

Eventually, henna – also known as mehendi – was incorporated into important celebrations such as engagements and weddings.

As a result, most people see henna, itself, as a dye. As the dye is not linked to any one culture or religion, using henna on your body is not considered a form of cultural appropriation.

When is Using Henna Considered a Form of Cultural Appropriation?

Well, this has to do with the patterns themselves.

As mentioned, one of the most important times for the application of henna is before a woman gets married. This is a rather common tradition in both India and Pakistan.

The application of mehendi is quite meaningful here. The patterns have cultural significance. It is also customary to hide the future groom’s name among the design.

The groom then must find his name on his bride’s hands once they are married. Sometimes this is done in public, after the main ceremony while in other instances it is done in private to establish intimacy between the married couple.

It is also believed that the deeper the color of the mehendi once the paste is washed away, the deeper your husband’s love for you. And, a long lasting design is meant to depict a long lasting marriage.

If you happen to get such a pattern or take patterns that are typically associated with South Asian, African, or Middle Eastern countries, then this would be considered cultural appropriation.

Keep in mind that although you may think that these patterns are pretty, they don’t have quite the same meaning or power to you. Therefore, to use them in such a manner can seem like you are trivializing what the henna patterns mean to other people.

Is It Always Cultural Appropriation to Wear These Patterns?

This depends on the circumstances. Now, with mehendi parties, it isn’t always just the bride that gets these patterns.

The other women present at the party may also have designs drawn on them. If you are attending one of these parties and are having the patterns drawn on you, then it isn’t considered cultural appropriation.

This is because you have been given consent to have such patterns drawn on you from people who are a part of that culture.

If a friend belonging to an Indian, Pakistani, African, or Middle Eastern culture wants to draw designs for you or simply practice on you, then this isn’t considered cultural appropriation either.

What Henna Designs are Appropriate?

As mentioned, henna itself isn’t considered culturally significant. Due to this, you can use henna to draw a wide variety of temporary tattoos or images on your body.

This can include names, symbols, etc. For instance, stars, hearts, flowers, are just a few examples of what is appropriate to get inked on your body.

You can even get repeating patterns on your body. Just make sure that these aren’t linked to a particular culture or custom to avoid offending anybody.

Understanding the Difference Between Appreciation and Appropriation

Henna is a beautiful way to decorate your body and as it is becoming more and more mainstream, it can be difficult to stay away from using it to draw patterns.

After all, if you appreciate the symbolism behind henna designs, isn’t it appreciation rather than appropriation?

Henna Tattoo on Hand

If you make the effort to do your research and learn about henna designs and what they mean to certain cultures, then this can be considered appreciation of a culture.

At the same time, you do need to be aware of your own position. The reason that there is a fine line between appreciation and appropriation is because of who is doing the appreciating.

If you belong to a social or ethnic group that has historically played a role in either dehumanizing or minimalizing other people’s roles in society, then it can be considered appropriation.

This is true even if you have the right intentions behind adopting certain aspects of the culture. Keep in mind, even if you haven’t been directly responsible for marginalizing a group, it doesn’t mean that you can adopt certain aspects of your culture.

This is because of how it can make people who are a part of that marginalized culture feel. If those individuals have been actively bullied in the past for wearing mehendi and then see you now adopting these designs, it is only natural for them to feel resentful.

How to Use Henna Appropriately?

You may want to start off by doing some research into traditional henna or mehendi designs. This will give you an idea of which designs or patterns to steer clear of.

Educating yourself on these designs may provide you with greater insight into their meaning as well and help you to understand why certain patterns may not be appropriate for people outside of a certain culture.

If possible, speak to someone who is a part of Indian, Pakistani, African, or Middle Eastern culture to get their take on their chosen design. Just keep in mind that not everyone will have the same reaction when it comes to cultural appropriation.

And, if you have been given the green light regarding a certain pattern, make sure to respect it. Don’t just see it as an accessory but as an important link to someone’s culture.

You should also be careful of how you post things on social media. Avoid adding any captions or hashtags that may allude to the fact that you are using the henna in any cultural capacity as this can upset a lot of people.

As long as you make an effort to steer clear of designs that may be associated with a certain culture, you should be able to use henna without any issue at all.

Is Henna a Form of Cultural Appropriation?

Henna, by itself, is a type of dye and due to this, the use of henna isn’t associated with a particular culture – using henna isn’t cultural appropriation but you should be aware of the patterns or designs that you use as these can be offensive to certain individuals.

Sites Like PvPRO

With PvPRO down, you may be looking for the next platform to satisfy your CGSO needs. While there are many sites out there, not all can provide you with what you need for a heart racing match.

To make sure that you have the best gaming experience possible, here are the sites that you should be checking out:

CSGO.net

There are a lot of options available to you with CSGO, making it one of the top alternatives to PvPRO. One of the main perks is the large audience on the site – there are over 5 million users on the site which means that you will always be able to find someone online.

This is good news since there are tons of operations and battles to tackle. Simply log in through your steam account and you will be able to see just what is going on. If you are looking for cases, to trade, or upgrades, then this is the right site for you. It has everything that you need, and more.

FACEIT

This is arguably one of the more popular platforms around. With 15 million other competitors, you can guarantee that this is the place to be. This is especially since with 128 tick servers, you get location optimization to ensure that you get proper access no matter where you are.

Homepage for faceit

And, if you are tired of all the cheaters, then FACEIT has just the solution for you. Not only is the site anti-cheat protected, but they actively ban any players who are found taking shortcuts. This means that you only get to play with and battle against the best of the best.

This is also a site that rewards you the more that you play. As you get better, you can climb the ranks and keep track of your skill progression as you do.

ESEA

If you take CSGO seriously, then ESEA is the site for you. Not only has this site been up for more than a decade, but it has a structure that is modelled after the top sports clubs in the world. This means that you get the true professional treatment as a player.

Of course, it isn’t all business with ESEA. No, this is a great way to meet people from all around the world and to make new friends. What’s even better is that there are cash prizes to be won. Boasting 128 tick servers around the globe, you can guarantee the lowest ping possible.

This is another site that works hard to prevent cheating. They keep track of reports and actively ban any members who are found cheating.

Leetway

This is another one of the top match making platforms for CSGO around! You can choose to play ranked ladder matches or pick up games at any time at all. Thanks to the match management system, you will have no problem finding people for these matches and getting started at any point. Even if you are just a spectator, Leetway guarantees an amazing experience.

Homepage for Leetway

As there are many registered users, creating a pickup game or a serious match shouldn’t be any trouble at all for you. The site also is very concerned about cheating and takes all reports seriously. They are involved in actively banning any members caught cheating.

ChallengerMode

There is just so much to do on ChallengerMode. Not only is it one of the premier sites for CSGO, but it is a great place for gamers in general. To start off with, you can play matchmaking games to claim your tier on ChallengerMode and keep on moving on up among your competitors.

You also have the option of joining tournaments. As these tournaments are constantly being updated, you will constantly have something to do. There are also plenty of additional features associated with ChallengerMode.

Once of this is the marketplace listing for lessons. If you want to improve your performance and really become a contender, then there are top gamers who are willing to teach you.

There you have it – a list of the top contenders for PvPRO. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a more casual gaming experience or one that takes it to the next level. You are sure to find a site on this list that meets your needs perfectly.