>
Lgbtqimage-credit
hello
Men who choose to express themselves through clothing traditionally associated with differences in fashion have become increasingly visible in recent years. Often referred to as "gender non-conforming" or "gender-fluid," these men are challenging societal norms and pushing boundaries in the fashion world. They are breaking free from traditional gender roles and expressing themselves in ways that feel true to them. This article will take a closer look at the experiences of men who are gender fluid, delving into the reasons behind their choices and the impact it has on their daily lives.
For some men, the decision to dress in a feminine way is rooted in a desire to express their true selves. They may have always felt a disconnect between their gender identity and the societal expectations placed on them as men. Dressing in a feminine way allows them to express their individuality and feel more comfortable in their own skin. For others, it may be a way to challenge societal norms and push back against the rigid gender binary. They may see it as a form of self-expression and a way to challenge the status quo.
The decision to dress in a feminine way can also be a political statement, a way to push back against the patriarchal society that often oppresses and marginalizes those who do not conform to traditional gender roles. By embracing femininity, these men are challenging societal expectations and taking a stand against the rigid gender binary.
However, this decision is not without its challenges. Men who dress in a feminine way often face discrimination and harassment from society. They may be teased, bullied, or even assaulted because of their choices. They may also face discrimination in the workplace, making it difficult for them to find and keep jobs. This is particularly true for those who are visibly gender non-conforming.
Despite these challenges, more and more men are choosing to dress in a feminine way. This is a trend that is becoming increasingly visible in the fashion world, as well. Many designers are beginning to create clothing that blurs the lines between masculine and feminine. This is a reflection of the changing cultural landscape and a shift in societal attitudes towards gender expression.
In conclusion, this article will explore the experiences of men who dress in gender fluid, delving into the reasons behind their choices and the impact it has on their daily lives. We discussed with Denrele Edun on what inspired his style, what drives his creativity and how he became one of the biggest fashionistas in the country today.
On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you today?
I'm on a 12! I'm on a 12 because I feel very fulfilled from a successful hosting, show execution, style destroying, fashion breaking night last night at the humor awards 2023. I hosted the first edition two years ago, and I was brought back this year to host another edition. I had a couple of wardrobe malfunctions but I mean, that's what showbiz is all about. So i'm on a high 12, and i've been getting positive reviews about my hosting, and as I was checking out of my hotel, i ran into a client to discuss some business. So yeah, I feel wonderful today.
So what’s your morning routine like?
Okay so I'm not a morning person because I'm usually out at night. So I sleep in the mornings, except if i have to really discipline myself or if i have a flight to catch, or i have a meeting or if i have to do something early. But here’s my typical morning routine: if I feel comfortable, I sleep by 6am and wake up by 11. But if the reverse is the case, by 7am-9am I join NSPPD prayers, while stretching and preparing my outfit for the day. After that, I listen to music. I'm also a skincare enthusiast. As much as I take care of myself on the inside, I take care of myself on the outside. I have a range of products I use as well.
Also, at times I discipline myself. There's a routine I had. I get up as early as 6am and jog around my estate for 30 minutes. I enjoy it because it clears my head.
What would you say is the difference between living abroad and living in Nigeria?
I was born in Hamburg, Germany. My mom is Indian, but my dad is Nigerian. They met in Germany. My dad was an underground DJ in the club at night and was also in the food technology business during the day while my mum was studying computer science. They got to meet each other and fell in love. Something funny happened when I was born. When I clocked one, my dad took me to a photo studio. While we were at the studio, I was posing and months later, they started seeing billboards of me in the area (Hamburg). My dad was surprised and asked why I was on all the billboards and they told him an agent came, and used it as an editorial for baby products. My dad didn't know what to say because he was surprised, and had little knowledge of intellectual property. At the end of the day, he contacted the agent and they told him I'll get a steady supply of baby milk products for a year. Very interesting!
When my grandpa passed on, we came to Nigeria. I don't remember much about staying in Germany because we moved very early.
Did you ever see yourself as becoming one of the biggest fashionistas in the country?
I knew I was going to do something very entertainment inclined along the line. I don't think I've even gotten to the peak of anything yet because I still feel like I'm playing with my brand, my personality, I'm in tune with my philosophy so I'm still discovering myself along the line. You learn, unlearn, relearn to evolve. I am glad for the process. I love the growth, I love the security it's given me in all ramifications, and when I mean security, it has not only been able to put food on my table, but food that will feed my generation. It's given me tranquility in my life, and expressing myself through fashion is therapeutic for me. I didn't think I would get to this point, and I'm glad it turned into a brand that has been acknowledged worldwide, and is still getting acknowledged.
I started in 1994 when I started acting and I rebranded my identity when I got into Unilag in 1998, and I'm glad for the silent strength it gave me. It's been a long journey, and it's a journey I'm proud of. I've come this far, and however my portfolio of work may be undervalued or unappreciated, I know where I'm coming from and I totally respect, regard and live for myself
.
Who inspired your style?
Na me dey inspire myself. And I think because I inspire myself, I set my principles and do my thing. My clothes are an extension of my personality and an extension of my individuality. There's nothing hypocritical or pretentious about my style.
How do you spend your evenings?
I'm always out. I'm never by myself, those moments are rare because i always have people around, but i've learnt something which i started in my 40s. I started to enjoy my own company. I get to rediscover things about myself, spend some personal time, listen to music, do what I love and eat what I love to eat. I also talk to myself a lot. I like the relationship I have with myself. There are many layers of myself that would constantly peel off and I get to discover that.
What advice do you have for kids who want to go into fashion?
First things first. The fashion industry is booming. It's a goldmine and if we have the likes of Oprah Whinfrey patronize Deola Sagoe, if we have the likes of Michelle Obama wear Maki Oh, if we have the likes of the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Dr Theresa ame wear Emmy Kasbit, if we have the likes of Mayowa Nicholas walk for Victoria Secret, then you should get a clear picture of the fashion industry. The African Fashion space is on a global scale, even before the advent of the internet. So ask yourself. Are you getting into fashion because you want to create? Or because you want people to be aware of things you know that they don't know. Fashion is broad.
What is your greatest strength and weakness?
One of my weaknesses is that I'm a people pleaser. I'm a really nice person, nice to a fault. But I'm working on it. I'm also mindful of people that come to my space. One strength I would say is my power persuasion, and I can spot talents.
What advice would you give your fans?
I regard my fans as family. They inspire me, and I'm honored. I want to give a shoutout to all of my fans, and my advice is to be a first class version of yourself, and not a second class version of anybody and also, choose a job that you love. Listen to learn, and learn to listen. And be MAD: Make a difference. And to every person reading this interview, we Africans are blessed with SWAG!