Best of: why men’s fashion is skimpier and more queer
Nov 18, 2024
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Robert Armstrong, a financial commentator and men’s fashion columnist, and Eric Platt, a corporate finance writer and fashion expert, dive into the playful transformation of men's fashion. They discuss the rise of skimpy attire like crop tops and short shorts, reflecting a shift in masculinity and societal norms. The conversation touches on body positivity, the influence of queer culture, and changing beauty standards under social media scrutiny. Emphasizing light-hearted expression, they explore how modern choices reflect joy amidst serious times.
The rise of playful men's fashion, including crop tops and short shorts, reflects a cultural shift towards more liberated masculinity and self-expression.
Growing acceptance of traditionally queer styles among heterosexual men showcases evolving attitudes toward gender expression and the normalization of diverse fashion choices in society.
Deep dives
Emergence of Playful Men’s Fashion
Men’s fashion is experiencing a shift towards more playful and daring styles, with trends such as short shorts and crop tops gaining popularity. This transformation reflects a broader cultural movement where men are becoming more comfortable with self-expression in their clothing choices. The emergence of iconic looks, like that of actor Paul Mezcal at Milan Fashion Week, signifies a break from traditional masculinity and utilitarian dressing. This playful approach allows men to showcase their bodies and embrace a sense of chaos in their sartorial decisions, fostering an environment where fashion can be fun and light-hearted.
Queering of Men's Clothing
The acceptance of clothing typically associated with queer culture, such as crop tops and fitted garments, has permeated mainstream men’s fashion. There is a growing willingness among heterosexual men to adopt these styles, signaling a shift in societal attitudes toward masculinity and gender expression. This change is further echoed by the increasing visibility of male celebrities confidently sporting diverse fashion choices, which helps to normalize these looks. The trend highlights a significant cultural evolution where men no longer fear social stigma when experimenting with their wardrobes.
Impact of Social Media on Body Image
The rise of social media platforms has profoundly influenced men’s perceptions of body image, with many seeking to achieve an idealized physique often depicted online. As men engage more deeply with their appearances through platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the desire to conform to these visual standards leads to a surge in the use of performance-enhancing substances. This fascination with attaining a desired physical form raises concerns regarding health and well-being, as men grapple with the pressures of modern masculinity. The intertwining of appearance with personal and professional success underscores a cultural shift where body image is paramount to identity.
You probably noticed by their clothes: this summer, men just wanted to have fun. Crop tops, short shorts and even kilts and skirts were in. Long sleeves, and long inseams, were out. Today, two FT men’s fashion experts, Robert Armstrong and Eric Platt, join us to discuss how and why this happened, and what the rise of skimpy menswear tells us about masculinity today.
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