Summary of My Study

This was actually a lot more difficult than I thought it would be. A majority of the people I asked, I'd say about 70%, did not want their picture taken or would not answer me. I approached the young women with, "Hi. I'm doing a study on menswear influences in fashion today, do you mind if I ask you a couple of simple questions and take your picture." I think I was turned down a lot of the time because women are skeptical of why they're picture needs to be taken and where that picture will end up. So, I changed my approach to the same statement, but without asking for a picture. More answered my questions, but then wouldn't allow me to take their picture. Many were almost ashamed of their answer to the question about whether or not they would be OK with a man wearing their clothing that they didn't want their face and picture to appear anywhere with the statement they made.

An example: One girl wearing a button-down shirt was open to answering my questions. I asked if she was aware of the menswear influence. She said yes. I explained how years ago, button-down shirt were completely unacceptable for women in society because it was seen as seductive and slutty that you could have such easy access to their breasts. She was nice, interested, and stuck around. Then I asked if she would be OK with a man wearing a dress and heels. She immediately responded with "Ew! No." I said thank you for participating in my study and could I take a picture (stating that my professor would be the only one to see it). She would not let me, putting together that this might be some kind of Women's Studies class and she might be in some kind of trouble for her answer.

Princess in Plaid

Did you know that the plaid, or tartan pattern, that you are wearing was originally worn only by men?

No.

Ya, tartan wasn't worn by women until the mid 18oo's and before then was strictly for military distinctions and only worn by men. How do you feel about wearing a menswear influence today and not even knowing it?

I don't really care. I like the shirt so I bought it. There's a lot of stuff in my closet that probably has some "men's history" behind them but I wear what I like and want to wear without thinking about that.

How would you feel about a man saying the same thing? With dresses, skirts, and heels in his closet?

Haha. I'd probably say he was gay, but at least he's comfortable with it enough to have those things.

Yee-Haw!

Are you aware that cowboy boots (hence the name) were originally made for men only?

I didn't really think about it but that makes sense. But then girls started wearing them a long time ago too.

But do you call yours cowboy boots or cowgirl boots?

Cowboy boots because that's the original name, maybe? Should I not? Ahh I don't know.

And how would you feel if you saw a guy in your outfit, skirt, cropped jacket, and all?

I guess I don't care... I mean, I'd probably react somehow, maybe look at them funny, and go on with my life.

Don't boys wear blazers?

Is that a men's blazer?

No. It's womens...

Well men were wearing them first. So it's technically a men's jacket. Right?

Sure, I guess. But then women started wearing them when they began working and now they're more fitted for girls.

Well, what if you saw a man on the street wearing your floral tunic top?

My boyfriend wears floral shirts. I don't have a problem with that. But I guess if it was this exact one, yes, that'd be weird. I'd probably feel less inclined to wear it myself. (laughs as if it is a joke).

Are you aware that your button-down was originally a men's garment?

Probably, ya. But that's ok. It's for women now.
How would you feel if a guy in this hall were wearing your heels?
Haha. More power to him! You know, the reality is other people will look at him weird, but ya...more power to him!

Are you aware that your jacket was originally menswear?

Ya, originally.
How would you feel if a guy was wearing a little floral dress?
I say go for it! I'm all for everyone wearing and doing what they want!

Vests are the best!

Are you aware that your vest is menswear?
I guess so.
How would you feel if a guy was wearing your skirt?
I mean, that's fine...as long as he knows he's gonna be made fun of.