KQED's Forum The Evolution of Men’s Fashion with 'The Menswear Guy'
May 16, 2025
Derek Guy, a menswear writer and the creative mind behind Dieworkwear, dives deep into the intricate world of men's fashion. He discusses the rise of hyper-curated masculinity fueled by social media trends and the cultural backlash against gender fluidity. Guy emphasizes how fashion acts as a social language, expressing cultural anxieties and identities. He explores the transformation of attire, from the declining relevance of the suit to timeless wardrobe choices, encouraging listeners to embrace personal style as a reflection of their aspirations.
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Alpha Male Fashion Shift
- The current alpha male fashion emphasizes very tight clothing to showcase muscularity.
- This contrasts previous eras where slim fits were associated with different cultural anxieties and identities.
MAGA's Fashion as Populism
- MAGA influences have shaped a populist, hyper-masculine aesthetic with merchandise like red hats and gold sneakers.
- This reflects a backlash against cultural changes like gender fluidity and body positivity.
Fashion as Social Language
- Fashion acts as a social language reflecting the spirit of the age.
- Clothing signals group belonging and individuality shaped by political, economic, and technological contexts.