Square Peg in a Round Hole: Locating Metrosexuality

Abstract

As we have seen in previous chapters, metrosexual identity centres on high levels of image-management, whether that is the consumption of clothes or the use of cosmetics to enhance appearance. We know from dictionary definitions that metrosexuality has been associated with heterosexuality, but also that men who show an interest in grooming may also be thought of as gay or appear as square pegs in round holes because appearance-related practices have traditionally been associated with women and femininity. In this chapter I explore how metrosexuality is presented in the media. I present an article and reader responses from a men’s lifestyle magazine, which is, arguably, representative of many mediated discussions about the phenomenon. I focus specifically on the representation of metrosexuality and the variety of reader responses. I begin by discussing why men’s lifestyle magazines and in particular online magazines are important spaces for gauging opinions on gender and sexual identities and masculinities specifically.