Are there any times it might be okay for men to wear dresses? Even the most liberal of women find the idea of man in a dress a tad odd. Sure, we are used to drag queens and cross dressers but what about guys who don a skirt or frock every day? I found out that skirts designed for men are MUGs – male unbifurcated garments -- and here are some times when it be okay for men to wear dresses.
Beware Greeks wearing dresses. Greek presidential guards known as Evzones wear traditional costume consisting of a white-sleeved white shirt, an embroidered waistcoat, a sash, a fustanella which is a skirt with 400 pleats, representing the 400 years of Turkish oppression finished off with pompom trimmed shoes. When it involves history and a place of honor, it's definitely one time it might be okay for men to wear dresses.
Indeed, the traditional regalia of the Evzones is steeped in nationalism and pride. These iconic fustanella skirt-like garments are not just pieces of clothing; they convey a story of cultural resilience and freedom. During ceremonial occasions, the pleated symbolism and the proud posture of the Greek guards elevate the outfit beyond cross-dressing humor — it’s a salute to heritage. And for those moments, the fustanella transforms into a canvas of historic triumph, woven with every fold, demanding respect rather than ridicule.
Originating in the Mahgreb region of North Africa, a Djellaba is a traditional outer robe. Most have a peaked hood and originally the colour you wore symbolized your marital status. This is different from the traditional dress garment that is worn by Arabs, which is known as a Thawb
The Djellaba is a versatile garment; it's loose-fitting which makes it perfect for various occasions, particularly in warmer climates where breathability and comfort are paramount. Its design is such that it traps a layer of air that serves to keep cool in the heat and warm in the chill. Traditionally worn by both men and women, it's seen as a practical choice for everyday wear. Today, the Djellaba might also be chosen for its stylish quality, weaving a touch of ethnic authenticity into a contemporary wardrobe. It’s a unique way for men to skirt the norm while paying homage to cultural roots.
It is not unusual for the men of Indonesia, Polynesia and some South Eastern Countries to wear sarongs, although many of them are now only brought out for religious occasions. However, when the most famous soccer player of our time wears one, does it hamper or hinder it and his image? Check out the infamous David Beckham sarong that caused so much press interest, and decide whether or not that's one time it might be okay for men to wear dresses.
In some cultures, a sarong is less of a fashion statement and more of a heritage emblem. Wearing one should be seen as a nod to tradition rather than a break in masculinity. David Beckham, sporting his sarong in the late '90s, arguably bent the strict rules of male attire. Sure, it raised eyebrows, but it also placed the spotlight back onto an age-old garment, blurring gender lines in fashion. It made a statement: style transcends gender norms, encouraging a dialogue about cultural attire and modern masculinity. Would you dare to wrap up in tradition?
Even though they’ve been wearing them for hundred of years, let’s face it -- the kilt is still a skirt. Mind you, there’s something to be said when it’s covering the nether regions of Sean Connery. Still, it really is a skirt -- just a richly cultural and historical one!
If you ask great fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier – he of Madonna pointy boobs fame – when the time might be okay for men to wear dresses, he'd probably say any time! He is very fond of the skirt. Even his wax dummy at Madame Tussaud’s wears a kilt. Check it out on a search engine or on the Tussaud’s site.
Gaultier isn't alone in his thinking. High-fashion runway shows frequently feature men in skirts and dresses, challenging traditional gender norms. The Devil Wears Prada might have been onto something when Miranda Priestly implied what's on the runway one day walks through the rest of the world the next. Designers like Rick Owens, Marc Jacobs, and Vivienne Westwood have showcased menswear collections that blur the lines between male and female attire. It's not just about making a statement – it's about comfort, freedom, and personal expression. Whether paired with boots or loafers, in the world of haute couture, menswear is ready for a skirted revolution.
Always at the forefront of the weird and wonderful, Japanese men love skirts and dresses and they aren’t gay or drag queens or under the influence of some fetish. I tried to find the website of Zooee Corp., the fashion retailer responsible for introducing Chanel and Westwood skirts to the trendy young males of Tokyo but couldn’t. You might have better luck, and it's definitely worth a look.
Japan has a long history of gender-bending fashion, with men often embracing traditionally feminine styles. This is not a new phenomenon, as men have been wearing skirts and dresses in Japan for centuries. In fact, the traditional Japanese garment, the kimono, is essentially a dress. In recent years, the trend has gained even more popularity, with major fashion retailers like Zooee Corp. catering to young men looking to express themselves through clothing. This trend is not limited to just skirts and dresses, as men in Japan also wear makeup and other traditionally feminine accessories. The acceptance of these fashion choices in Japan is a reflection of the country's progressive attitudes towards gender and self-expression.
Mel Gibson in Braveheart, Russell Crowe in Gladiator, Brad Pitt as Achilles, Dustin Hoffman in Tootsie even Patrick Swayzee in Too Wong Foo – is it the money, the fame or just the chance to slip on a skirt? You have to imagine they might be comfortable. Besides, if a man can get away with it, why not?
Of course there are others – the clergy who wear robes because of their job, Monks because, erm, well, because they do, West and East African tribal traditional dress, the Hawaiian grass skirt – these are all legitimate skirt wearing opportunities. There are also tons of websites dedicated to men who love skirts, suggesting there are always times it might be okay for men to wear dresses and skirts. Are you worried you may have to lock your clothes away from the men in your life?
Top Photo Credit: CougPDX