“Shine, step into the light, shine, so bright sometimes” – ‘Lights Up’ by Harry Styles
Harry Styles, former One Direction member and current solo artist, shines bright when showcasing his unique and fun sense of fashion. He’s defying fashion stereotypes and breaking gender norms on a daily basis with his clothing selection. Gender is a social construct, which could pigeonhole people into dressing or acting a certain way. Harry is showing through his fashion and music that gender should not be thought of as a strictly set construct. From wearing pearl necklaces to sporting colorful nail polish, Styles shows that he is not afraid to challenge the traditional “masculine” fashion standards.
Gucci, a fashion house known for creating items emulating androgynous styles, has been a favorite designer of Harry lately. Despite the brand being well-known and respected, one of Harry’s worst outfits according to the media comes from Gucci. Fans of Styles know his infamous floral Gucci suit which caused the internet to blow up, but the suit still remains a favorite of Harry’s to this day.
In a recent interview with L’Officiel, Harry gave his personal opinion about gender norms and the rigid roles society has assigned to men and women.
“Many borders are falling—in fashion, but also in music, films, and art,” he said in the interview. “I don’t think people are still looking for this gender differentiation. Even if the masculine and feminine exist, their limits are the subject of a game.”
It is evident that Harry Styles is an icon for everyone. He emulates personification, courage, and perseverance. Regardless of what society and the media say about Styles’ clothing and accessory choices, he continues to wear whatever he desires. Styles’ yearning to remain true to himself should be an inspiration to all. Authenticity is something to be treasured in a world obsessed with displaying a “perfected” and “socially acceptable” appearance. Keep on being your authentic self, Harry Styles!