I’ve never considered myself a fashionable man. Fashionable? Yes. Fashionable man? Not quite? I attribute this to how the men’s fashion industry has shaped our mentality on who is considered a fashionable man. When I read major men’s fashion websites or blogs, I don’t see myself reflected in these platforms. I see men so unattainable it makes me question if I am even fashionable or just plain weird? I call this the GQ Effect.
GQ Effect: The criteria placed by society and the men’s fashion industry that a man must adhere to in order to be considered a “fashionable man” .
1) Be tall, handsome, muscular & fit.
2) Use the word “grooming” and never “beauty” products
3) No makeup. None at all.
4) That said: Only buy products that clearly state “for men”. Nivea? No. Nivea for Men? Yes.
5) Dark wash slim jeans. Slim to an extent because we don’t want “super skinny” pants.
6) Chukka boots.
7) Bags? Only messenger or backpack. Totes? You’re teetering on the edge of fashion danger.
8) Watches? Big and chunky.
9) Never dare step into the women’s section of a store.
10) Do I even need to say it? Do not wear any kind of women’s article of clothing.
Nothing wrong if you follow these rules but the scrutiny that one faces if they do not adhere to them is crippling. To those who don’t follow fall under these criteria: never doubt your fashion. Widen the boundaries. Challenge the GQ Effect. You are fashionable. Be your own man.
Kent M.
Comments