Metrosexual – by Vikki Hassett

 

 

 

Metrosexual was a term coined by British journalist Mark Simpson in 1994, it refers to men who take pride in their style and appearance and approach their lives with more modern ideologies. 

 

The age of the metro-sexual, has allowed men to liberate themselves from their hunter/gatherer image and has given them the desire and confidence to experiment with fashion and beauty.  The extent, to which this has been achieved however, is slight, and this progressive interest in fashion and appearance remains essentially, among the 20-30 age groups.  Once men reach their late thirties, ‘fashion’ becomes less important and they seek clothing that functions for the demands of their lifestyles, along with better quality, lasting garments.  Function and practicality are much more important to men.

 

{mosimage}David Beckham has undeniably been a key role model, if not the definitive metro-sexual male.  A sportsman, especially a footballer, is deemed the epitome of masculinity.  His respected and admired position has allowed Beckham the opportunity to break down stereotypes and barriers and has made it acceptable for men to be conscious of themselves.  Men look to style icons such as David Beckham, to give them confidence and reassurance on their fashion decisions.  But please get some form of individuality boys, because if I see one more man wearing a pink t-shirt and ripped jeans, with a head clogged full of hair wax, I will not be held responsible for my actions. 

 

The notion of the modern man, goes much further than appearance, it is concerned with breaking down stereotypical and social roles.  Just as women liberated themselves from the restraints of their imposed roles as child bearer and homekeeper, men are attempting to breakdown the stereotypes associated with their roles within the family

 

{mosimage}As each season’s trends emerge, a great deal of emphasis is placed on what women will be wearing, with fashion press remaining largely geared towards women.  It is, perhaps, relative to men’s interest in fashion.  However, it could be argued that men’s interest in fashion is marginalized, as a result of under-representation within the media.

 

Women are not only very conscious of themselves but also of what others are wearing. They admire other women in and out of the public eye and aspire to look like and to emulate their look.  Women’s preoccupation with appearance is a result of their insecurities of the way they are perceived by others, where men, are much more comfortable and accepting of themselves.

 

{mosimage}Men do not shop seasonally to keep abreast of current trends; instead they tend to stick to the basic staples of their wardrobes, which include t-shirts, jeans and shirts.  This is largely as a result of there being very little change in men’s clothing from one season to the next.  Sportswear and tailoring are the major classifications, and variation comes in the specific detail of garments.  Limitations also arise from the lack of fashion availability on the high street.  Topman continues to lead the young menswear market, satisfying the needs of the fashion conscious male.  In my opinion, it is the only high street brand that offers individual, contemporary and high fashion essentials at affordable prices. 

 

{mosimage}Not to overlook the timeless fact, that most men just do not like shopping.  They just do not experience the same rush of excitement that shopping brings us girls.  When they go shopping, it is with a purpose.  They know what they want and they know where to get it.  Fashion for men, is about replacement and replenishment.  I have seen many a pair of holey boxer shorts in my time.  It seems men only buy new if the old is literally falling apart or, if they ‘accidentally’ find their way into the rubbish bin!

 

 

 

 

 

By Vikki Hassett