Blog 1: Gender

Bria Quarles-Harris
WMST 205

Prompt 1:

For centuries women have worn dresses for a variety of reasons ranging from protection purposes to fashion statements, however, the early history of dresses primarily served as a protective garment for both men and women especially during the 15^th and 16^th centuries. Dresses are described as a skirt, long or short, that is attached to a bodice (the upper body portion of the dress). During the 16^th century, it was not uncommon to see little boys wearing dresses until they reached their adolescent/adult years under the tradition of "breeching". It was not until the 17^th century when dresses became less common with men and more common with women and as of today we have symbolized dresses to be an indicator of femininity.

Prompt 2:

            Society today has associated femininity with wearing dresses and is specifically aimed more towards women. However, there has been a major change regarding gender expression among men and women. It has become increasingly popular to see men wearing dresses and it is now slowly becoming a social norm. The LGBTQ+ community has contributed greatly to the rapid growth in associating dresses with men, women, and for those who are non-binary. For example, recently Queer Eye actor Jonathan Van Ness wore a dress at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards. While it is not the first time, nor will it be the last, a man has worn a dress at an award show his choice in particular sparked two-sided discussion. Fortunately, there were more positive outlooks than negatives with many people even supporting the idea of men wearing dresses in public similar to the idea of women wearing jumpsuits or tuxedos. Van Ness’s choice in wearing a dress at a public award show has opened the idea of challenging gender norms and has even helped contribute with our society’s progression.

Prompt 3:

            As a straight female, I do not believe that I have allowed this cultural artifact to influence my gender identity or expression. A dress to me is a just a dress and it does not define my gender identity at all. I know that I am a straight female and am just not always fond of wearing dresses. I often find them to be uncomfortable and choose to wear more dark/sluggish apparel and even then what I choose to wear does not impact my gender affiliation.

Prompt 4:

            According to Griswold’s the concept of dresses overall serves as the cultural artifact. The social world involves American pop culture. Fashion designers such as Versace or Dolce & Gabbana are the creators. Lastly, the receivers are mostly female, but beginning to reach male audiences.