Men's Fashion and Ideal Bodies: The Impact of Fashion Standards on Men

It is commonly believed that the pursuit of an ideal body is a female concern. When we talk about body issues, such as anorexia, we typically think of women. However, studies show that men are also struggling with dissatisfaction with their appearance, and this issue is becoming increasingly noticeable.

It is commonly believed that the pursuit of an ideal body is a female concern. When we talk about body issues, such as anorexia, we typically think of women. However, studies show that men are also struggling with dissatisfaction with their appearance, and this issue is becoming increasingly noticeable.

Dr. Harrison Pope from the McLean Hospital in Massachusetts found that men, especially young ones, are just as concerned about their bodies as women. Video games, where heroes have exaggeratedly muscular physiques, create unrealistic standards and amplify dissatisfaction. This leads young men to feel pressured to conform to these idealized images.

Fashion runways in recent years have showcased slender and androgynous models, which highlights new beauty standards. This trend creates a new ideal of male beauty where slender figures are admired. However, such images can place pressure on average men, pushing them towards unattainable standards.

Recent events, such as the story of Edward Siddons, who left modeling due to weight-related pressures, show how much influence fashion can have on men. Despite his physical parameters remaining unchanged over three years, he faced demands that led him to abandon modeling.

This issue also affects teenagers: nearly 20% of them are dissatisfied with their weight and proportions. Surveys show that many young people aim to either lose weight, gain muscle mass, or do both simultaneously. This dissatisfaction often leads to risky behaviors, including alcohol and drug use.

In shopping malls and sports nutrition stores, there is a growing interest in products promising physical improvements. The men's fashion market continues to expand, and advertisements featuring ideal bodies have a significant impact on youth.

The new trend has also sparked reactions among experts and fashion analysts. British retailer Jacamo recently held a protest against unrealistic male beauty standards, emphasizing that most men do not match the models representing men's collections on runways. This movement has drawn attention and contributed to discussions on current issues in the fashion industry.

Although fashion magazines strive for diversity, body positivity remains primarily a female concept. Media continue to portray idealized male bodies, making the issue of body dissatisfaction even more pressing. Society is still not fully prepared to recognize and support men facing appearance-related issues, which calls for further attention and changes in approaches to men's fashion and health.