Throughout our history, gender norms have been very prevalent and can make people feel restricted. Based on your gender, society has expectations for what you should look like, how you’re supposed to talk, behave, and things that you should be interested in. The pressure to conform and conceal your feelings and forms of expression clouds our everyday life and future aspirations. Luckily, the progression of going against these societal norms has boomed and many people in the media, music industry, and important fields are proving that anyone can act how they please. One man recently being Harry Styles.

Of course artists like Prince, Freddie Mercury, and David Bowe had defied gender roles in the music industry far before Harry Styles or current popular artists, but Harry Styles’ situation sparked controversy. Recently, Harry Styles was put on the cover of Vogue wearing a dress and deemed typical “feminine” attire. Though many praised and loved the statement and defying standard gender norms, a few were unhappy to say the least.

One statement coming from Candance Owens claiming that “we need to bring back manly men and men cannot wear dresses”. A few others shared a similar opinion and spoke negatively about the situation or called him rude names. Though anyone is entitled to their own opinions, clothes do not possess a gender and don’t define how masculine or feminine you’re perceived. 

If someone feels more comfortable in a dress or skirt, they should be allowed to wear that article of clothing. And vice versa. Don’t let society and standard/traditional people keep you trapped in the bubble of typical clothing for what you identify as. 

Ultimately, I am very happy that defying gender norms is being normalized and more people are speaking out against traditional ideas from the past. Harry Styles and many more can help many people, especially the younger generation, come to terms with who they are and what they want to wear and do.