La bendita faja

There’s something lurking the streets of Panama.  Something that is oppressive, painful, and preys on women between the ages of 16 and 60.  It’s tan, sleek, unsuspecting.  It’s…la bendita FAJA!

Does not need a faja

A “faja” is what we ladies in the States know as Spanks, or those undergarments meant to hold it all in as you wear that dress, skirt, or top that shows off your every curve.  Recall that wonderful scene in “Bridget Jones’ Diary” when she sacrifices her ‘sexy’ panties in favor of the control-top panties on her big date with Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant).

All the women are talking about it in Panama.  Even the lady working behind the counter at Shell was eager to get my opinion about the faja, whether or not she needs one, and if I had ever used one.  For those of you wondering, my answers were “useful sometimes, of course not, and sure, why not?”

In some ways it makes sense that the faja is so popular here.  In my experience, women in Latin America tend to wear clothing that shows off their curves, no matter the shape or size.  A faja would serve them well as they bare-all in their outfits.  

After pondering the ‘bendita faja’ more and reflecting on conversations with several folks including Panamanians and expats alike, I realized that appearances are very important in Panama.  People don’t roll out of bed to go anywhere.  This means no sweatpants in the grocery store, no athletic shorts unless you’re exercising, and you better throw on some makeup before showing your pretty face to the world outside.

Although for some, dressing up is only a vain pursuit, for others it’s a sign of respect.  Sure, you’re just running errands, but you’re also stepping in and out of people’s livelihoods.  These pharmacies, grocery stores, and cafés have sent kids to school, provided housing, and paid medical expenses for loved ones.  Avoiding the sweatpants is one way of showing your appreciation for the services an establishment may provide. 

Is it such a bad thing to take pride in your appearance?  No, of course not.  However, there’s also the notion of ‘keeping up appearances.’ From fajas to politics, sometimes human beings prefer covering up unwanted consequences or seeking short-sighted fixes for problems that require a long-term, sustainable solution, and Panama is no exception.

Panamanians are not alone in acting in this way.  We are all guilty of wanting to keep up appearances, looking for quick-fixes, and being vain.  It is important to remind ourselves to be honest and to confront the more unpleasant things in life with courage, but also with compassion.  Fajas may give us temporary peace of mind, but how will they serve us in the long run?