The debate around guys wearing crop tops
The fashion industry has always been a huge contributor to the changing societal norms around dressing. From skirts being confined only to women to unisex fashion being widely accepted, fashion has been a reflection of how people perceive gender roles. The latest trend that has caught everyone’s attention is the crop top trend. It is a comfortable summer clothing option for women, but the question is: can guys wear crop tops too?
History of crop tops in fashion
Crop tops have been around since the 70s and were initially seen as a symbol of female empowerment, rebellion, and freedom from restraints. The trend soon gained popularity amongst other fashion icons and became a staple, especially with the rise of disco culture and aerobics in the 80s.
The impact of gender stereotypes on fashion trends
For ages, fashion has been limited based on gender stereotypes. Men were supposed to wear only black, blue, and grey, and anything remotely colorful or flamboyant was seen as effeminate. Anything that strayed from the societal norms around clothing was considered taboo, and men who dared to wear anything that challenged gender boundaries were looked down upon.
Breaking stereotypes with gender-neutral clothing
The rise of gender-neutral clothing is a clear indicator that people are willing to break free from stereotypes around how they are supposed to look based on their gender. Clothing brands such as ASOS, Zara, and Uniqlo are setting new benchmarks in the fashion industry where they are using clothing that is not necessarily specific to men or women. Instead, they focus on the aesthetic of the garment and how it makes the wearer feel.
The verdict on guys wearing crop tops
To answer the question: yes, guys can wear crop tops. It is high time for society to move beyond the gender stereotypes reflected in fashion trends and embrace gender-neutral clothing that focuses on the individual expression of style based on their preferences. Everyone should be able to wear what makes them feel confident and comfortable, irrespective of their gender.
