Gender fluidity in fashion remains stagnant

The conceptualization of gender has morphed throughout history, usually forming itself around fashion and fads. Despite this seemingly constant metamorphosis of gender construct, the line between femininity and masculinity remains stagnant. Musical icons like Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and Prince established gender fluidity in their industry. These men showed a type of rockstar chic that was generally desired, specifically, by younger generations. People with such influence that chose to be open about their passions for fashion and music changed the way people viewed gender.

Modernly, celebrities like Conan Gray and Harry Styles are praised for how they present themselves to the younger generations, but by others, are looked down upon for how they “wrongly influence” their fans. Gender fluidity and queerness inherently threatens social ideas established by cisgender heterosexuals, and thus these labels being broken becomes socially uncomfortable. Labels being pointed out and expressed so explicitly can be deemed as a social obstacle rather than a simple way of existence. Lil Nas X, musical sensation and openly gay artist goes against these ideas.

Lil Nas is put in the news for his notable outfits, specifically the ones that challenge gender norms. His 2021 VMA’s lilac suit-dress was criticized, but he was “unfazed.” He is bold, uncaring, and allays to constant criticism. This fluidity he possesses with his public image is amorphous and enticing. The publications of his newest outfit, music video, or tweet most often revolve around this attitude he has towards bigotry.

There has always been an importance to break socio-political boundaries. We see in film, music, social media, etc. that this is the case. Showing up to huge events with a constant record of avant gardean outfits creates a vital public image, especially for queer and non-binary communities. 

Historically, gay men and lesbians have been categorized as sub-masculine or sub-feminine. Certain fashion trends that refuse to fall under the gender binary are mostly due to this. Recently, a surge of acceptance has reached the mainstream. Men are praised for being feminine, but women are never praised for being masculine. They are still seen negatively in many ways. Aiding this should be the goal of those who wish to bring acceptance in the mainstream and specifically the world of fashion.