The Metrosexual

    The article, “The Social History of Lesbian and Gay Identity” by Mimi Mannucci, states that there is a need for alternative interpretations of sexual identities that lie outside the heterosexual norm (25). We have one, “The Metrosexual”. Before the semester began I read, The Metrosexual Guide to Style. I picked it up at my favorite record shop in Rochester. The book explains and gives advice on many topics—general etiquette, wine, coffee, arts, culture, fashion, grooming, romance, home décor and even mindset. Michael Flocker gives a definition of the Metrosexual in the beginning of the book: 1. Twenty-first century male trendsetter
2. Straight, urban man with heightened aesthetic sense
3. Man who spends time and money on appearance and shopping
4. Man willing to embrace his feminine side
    In Flocker’s Introduction he mentions that the great divide between straight men and gay men has lessened considerably. He states that the metrosexual male has broken “masculine codes” (Intro). Although Flocker references Mark Simpson the man who supposedly coined the term and declared that any male—regardless if he was bi-sexual, straight or gay—could be a metrosexual; Flocker depicts—as evident in his definition—the metrosexual as a straight male.
     The book was a fun read and at the same time informative. However, I would like to separate myself from the high end consumer aspect of a metrosexual. I do have taste, but spending over 100 dollars on a shirt or pair of pants is a little outrageous to me.  I find that as I get older, I care more about my appearance and all the topics discussed in Flocker’s book. Of course some people have responded negatively but in most cases, it is harmless. For instance, my friend visited me from Rochester a few weeks ago and made fun of me because I have lots of shoes, more than a male should, according to her. I am not sure if I would label myself a metrosexual, but I did find myself relating to and agreeing with Flocker’s book on many topics.
    I agree with Flocker that the vision you get of the “normal” hetero sexual male is a macho and aggressive one. The Metrosexual male seems like a hybrid of a heterosexual male and a gay male. I do not necessarily agree though with Flocker that if you are gay, you cannot be a metrosexual. Thus, I think the metrosexual male needs to be better constructed. What I do like about Flocker’s interpretation is the promotion of a more sensitive, knowledgeable and worldly male the opposite of a tough, insensitive and narrowly minded guy. If anyone was wondering, Justin Timberlake and David Beckham are considered the ideal modern day Metrosexual.

Flocker, Michael. The Metrosexual Guide to Style: A Handbook for the Modern Man. Massachusetts: DA CAPO PRESS, 2003. Print.

Domalski, Josh