Strong, tough and emotionless: society’s traditional definition of a man. With these standards, men are expected to dress in a way that reflects these characteristics. However, masculinity expectations and dress code have subtly faded out with the start of the 21st century.
Men in the fashion industry have kicked down male stereotypes while expressing themselves in a flattering and iconic way, despite sexuality. This new phenomenon is retro, exquisite and expressive. Earrings, make-up, painted nails, plaid apparel, skinny jeans and more semi-feminine articles are now trending in the male clothing industry. What was bashed with derogatory comments years ago is now accepted and praised today.
Celebrities and models encompass these new trends most explicitly, influencing society to follow suit. Harry Styles, for example, wears unique jumpsuits, lots of funky patterns — such as plaid and cheetah print — as well as dangly earrings. The Dolan twins have also influenced male fashion culture, as they wear lots of stripes, flashy sunglasses, short shorts, velvet jackets, painted nails and feminine colors.
Self-care and cosmetics are also aspects of fashion and appearance that are newly accepted by men. In the past, it was typical for men to be groomed and maintain hygiene, but this concept has taken one step further. Men are now using face masks and other skin care products to rejuvenate their skin, as well as using male concealer and other cosmetics to subtly enhance their features. Some men in the LGTBQ community are expressing themselves through talented and exquisite makeup.
PV male students have depicted a lot of these trends on a daily basis through their individual style. Senior Brady Sexson described his style: “I like to explore different areas and types of fashion depending on my mood. I like to incorporate jeans into most of my daily outfits,” he said. “I also like to wear white sneakers with almost every outfit because I think they add a nice touch and go with everything.”
Senior Matt McBeth also put in his two cents about fashion. “I like to wear different types of jeans with vans and sometimes cuff the bottom because you can show off your shoes better,” he said, “I like wearing colors based on the season … and I also like wearing chains around my neck and different types of bracelets cause it’s something I’ve always been into and it makes people take another glance at you if they like it.”
Fashion has become more versatile, allowing people to express their individuality in a nonjudgmental, fun way. It seems as if male fashion will continue to diversify and break down gender-based barriers.
