By: Heather Habermehl
My friends are always surprised to see men’s clothing lines in “women’s” stores. Why is it astonishing that there is the same amount of men in H&M as women? Or that Forever21 offers men’s clothes in its brick-and-mortar locations, rather than just online? It should not come as a shock to anyone that men want trendy and affordable clothes, just as women do.
Over the past few years, it seems that men’s sections are growing or being created in stores with a traditionally higher percentage of women patrons. Although this has struck women as bizarre, this is a natural progression within the ready-to-wear industry. As fashion cycles become shorter, women desire clothes built for a season, not for long-term maintenance. This also drives down the cost of clothes, as garments are made less durably. The rise of the Charlotte Russes and the Papayas at suburban shopping malls has changed the way young people buy clothes. High style trends become available immediately. Although not to the same degree, this trend is being echoed in men’s apparel. Men, typecast as the more economically reasonable gender, appreciate the low cost of these items.
During the “metro” style upheaval, men were encouraged to care about their appearance in a manner stereotypically left to women. When the “metro” fad died, left in its wake is still the idea that young men should consider fashion trends and should recognize the importance in defining a personal fashion preference. Trendy apparel has become more widespread and accepted among men. The stigma against men shopping for fashionable items is dissipating. We females should actually be thrilled about this, right? Women should be pleased, not puzzled, by this movement. It is refreshing for us to suggest, “Let’s go to the mall,” and hear a male voice respond “Sure,” with less hesitation in his tone and less begging in ours.
Photo Credit: live.drjays.com
