Threading Through Norms: Redefining Gender in Fashion by Ayodele Onasegun

Masculinity & Femininity

aonas001 — 2024-05-20 04:56:56 UTC

In society, we are told how to dress from the moment we're born. Women have to dress or act one way while men dress another. Gender is present in our everyday lives and goes further than the social expectations enforced on men and women. What isn't talked about is how both genders reshape their gender identity through their behaviors and appearances, whether that's make-up or clothes (Lorber). I had divided my face in half, dedicating one side to wearing feminine make-up and the other to a more masculine approach to make-up. By doing this I hope to convey how one person can challenge societal gender norms and go beyond individual potential like Lorber wanted.

Masculinity in Feminine

aonas001 — 2024-05-20 05:37:45 UTC

Athena Nguyen's article on Female Masculinity inspired this look. Historically, lesbian feminism viewed the butch-femme culture as a domineering way to mimic the male heterosexual community as a way to survive and maintain the oppression against women. Yet, what is failing to be acknowledged is how clothes can challenge societal norms. It's not to mock men but a sense of expression. There are times when I like to dress masculine based on comfort and my sexuality as a bisexual woman. Clothing is an expression of who a person is and modern society has taught us that no article of clothing is tied to one sex.

Femininity

aonas001 — 2024-05-20 05:58:44 UTC

Gender expression through clothing is diverse, whether it's through material, make-up, or jewelry. Nothing is limited to just a single-sex. Feminism is the fight and advocacy for women's rights regardless of race, sexual orientation, or how someone may present them fashion-wise. Bell Hooks in "Feminist Politics" argues for a greater representation and diversity within the feminist theory. Advocating for others to understand that gender is fluid and complex in its own way. I chose to wear a dress in this picture because I like how it highlights my femininity, but that's not to say that even when I dress more masculine, my femininity is not present.

For Men or Women?

aonas001 — 2024-05-20 06:29:19 UTC

Jewelry in a fun way to add accessories to your look. In society, we were always told that necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings were meant for women, especially if the symbol was a heart or a flower. While men typically wear necklaces, glasses, chains, watches, and rings that are along the lines of bolder and angular designs.

Jewelry is Jewelry

aonas001 — 2024-05-20 06:38:30 UTC

The style and design of jewelry can contribute to gender expression. It allows a person to express their own personal style and identity, ignoring society's gender norms. Putting on jewelry can be harder for men because society may deem some of the materials as "gay" like wearing earrings or bracelets outside of the gender norm. Similar to clothes, jewelry is not subjected to one gender. I wouldn't only wear these pieces of jewelry when I dress masculine but feminine too. Jewelry is a great tool for breaking down gender stereotypes and reshaping gender identity.