Men in Skirts Is Not A New Concept
Skirts have been worn by men in many cultures around the world since the dawn of time, from the Ancient Egyptian shendyt, a kilt-style wrap skirt, to the Ancient Greek and Roman chiton, a one-piece tunic.
This statuette of a Laconian shows a short one shouldered chiton.
Over the centuries, however, skirts became less popular among men, especially in Western societies. While traditional garments like the Scottish kilt, the Japanese hakama, and the Middle Eastern thobe have stood the test of time, a clear gender divide in clothing emerged in Western culture at the end of the 18th century. This shift, known as the Great Male Renunciation, saw men abandoning vibrant colors, lace, jeweled embellishments, wigs, white powder, perfume, and high heels. In an attempt to distance themselves from the aristocracy and embrace values of hard work, practicality, and rationality, the new middle-class men leaned heavily toward the more simple and functional clothing, leaving the fun stuff to women.
Statue of Tjahapimu wearing a shendyt, Metropolitan Museum of Art
While minimalism as a life philosophy is something to strive for. Maybe, just maybe, we overcorrected a bit. It’s time we bring some joy and more choices back into men’s clothing.
Why Are There More Men Wearing Skirts Again?
Over the past five to ten years, we’ve witnessed a remarkable shift in men’s fashion, with more and more men embracing skirts. This change is driven by cultural and societal shifts that have broadened our understanding of gender and style. The rise in acceptance of gender-neutral clothing can be largely attributed to the visibility and influence of social media, which has played a significant role in destigmatizing men wearing skirts. High-profile celebrities and designers have also been at the forefront, inspiring others to explore the intersection of masculinity and beauty.
Furthermore, our increased awareness of mental health and the detrimental effects of traditional masculine behaviors, such as suppressing emotions, has sparked essential conversations about which aspects of masculinity are beneficial and which are harmful. LGBTQ+ activism has played a crucial role in softening societal views on sexual orientation and gender, fostering a more inclusive environment for all.
Finally, advancements in the study of genetic variations and biological sex have revealed a broader spectrum than the binary female and male, highlighting that approximately 1.7 percent of the population is born with intersex traits.
“I think there's much greater diversity within male or female, and there is certainly an area of overlap where some people can't easily define themselves within the binary structure,” says John Achermann, Head of the Molecular Basis of Rare Disease Section and Deputy Head of Genetics and Genomic Medicine at University College London's Institute of Child Health.
This new understanding challenges us to rethink our definitions and embrace a more nuanced perspective on gender.
Why Should Men Wear Skirts?
As we witness this transformative period in men’s fashion and gender expression, it’s essential to recognize the practical benefits that come with embracing new styles. Skirts are not just a symbol of this cultural shift—they offer significant health and comfort advantages as well.
Comfort Redefined
When the temperature rises, nothing beats the comfort of a skirt. Skirts offer superior air circulation, keeping you cool and minimizing sweat, which in turn reduces chafing. Imagine swapping out those sweaty bike shorts after a grueling 50-mile morning ride for a breezy skirt as you head to brunch with friends. Or slipping out of wet shorts to relax around the campfire after a thrilling afternoon of white water rafting. And when it’s time to dance at your favorite music festival, skirts let you do so in style while staying cool.
Health Benefits
Skirts are less restrictive and much better for your nether regions than skinny jeans, offering health benefits without sacrificing style. They promote better blood circulation, which is crucial for overall well-being, by eliminating the pressure from tight waistbands and seams. This helps alleviate discomfort and prevents issues like inguinal hernias, bladder weakness, and even urinary tract infections. Skirts also allow for optimal temperature regulation, keeping things cooler and supporting sperm production and overall testicular health. So, ditch the constriction and embrace the freedom—your body will thank you.
Practicality
When it comes to effortless style and practicality, skirts take the lead. Unlike some pants or shorts that require acrobatics to put on or take off, skirts slip on with ease. Skirts, especially sarongs or wraps, are perfect for the beach. Sand? No worries. Simple lightweight skirts play nice with sandy shores.
And here’s the travel hack: skirts are the ultimate jet-setters. They take up less space in your luggage compared to pants, making them an efficient choice for travel.
Confidence and Empowerment
If ‘what you wear affects how you feel’, then wearing skirts can boost your confidence by offering comfort, allowing self-expression, attracting positive attention, and challenging societal norms. It’s about more than just clothing; it’s about making a bold choice that signifies confidence in your decisions and a willingness to stand out. By disrupting societal expectations and embracing the freedom to dress as you please, you can instill a profound sense of pride and accomplishment. An act of defiance against rigid traditional boundaries can indeed fortify your self-assurance and personal conviction.
Let’s face it - wearing skirts isn't for everyone. It’s a personal choice, an expression of individual style and comfort. In the end, it’s about feeling confident in your own skin and embracing what works best for you. Some may prefer the freedom and health benefits of skirts, while others stick with traditional trousers. What matters most is that we respect each other’s choices and support the freedom to express ourselves in ways that make us feel our best.
So, are we having our own Great Label Renunciation historical phenomenon? It’s a thrilling time for fashion and gender expression, as we move towards a more inclusive and joyful approach to men’s clothing. In a society that values diversity and individuality, let’s celebrate the unique ways we each choose to define our style.