By Staff Writer Dominick Sanchez
What truly defines a person? Is it all about looks? Is psychical attractiveness a true indication of character? The old saying “You are beautiful on the inside” is often touted as a politically correct label for a less than attractive person. But is that enough? Body positivity is on the rise, but there is still a group of people left behind. These people are often left with a scathing, and quite frankly offensive “but” at the end of how a person would describe them. They are not attractive, but “they have a great personality” or, even worse, “but they are funny”. Why can’t a person just have a great personality without the unfortunate addition of “but”? A backhanded compliment is a backhanded compliment, regardless.
Unfortunately, men have been accustomed to this categorization for years. It also doesn’t help that any man above average body size isn’t portrayed in the most flattering light in media. Take Chris Pratt for example. He made a splash as the chubby and lovable Andy on “Parks and Recreation”. A role that could almost be considered as a form of typecasting. Pratt was never truly taken seriously as an actor until he shed nearly 60 pounds for “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Suddenly Hollywood took notice of him. Had he never changed his appearance, would he still have achieved mega stardom as the lovable chubby guy? Could any male actor really be taken seriously without a Hollywood physique? On the other end of the spectrum is the apparel industry. While women have made progress in body representation, men have seemingly been unceremoniously cast aside to the back burner. Would a company dare to be bold enough to showcase underwear on a man with a “dad bod”? Is that asking too much?
While the attractiveness of the dad bod physique has accelerated as a novelty thanks in part to the internet, it hasn’t captured the attention of other mediums. Why is it that a semi attractive and overweight male is only considered desirable on the internet or on comedy television? If it’s as covetable and popular as on the internet, then why is it noticeably absent from mainstream fashion? By fashion, I don’t mean the likes of Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana, but the brands that cater to the average Joe, such as Banana Republic, The Gap, etc… Body positivity goes beyond only females. There is an entire demographic out there that is not properly represented. A majority of online retailers now feature a full-fledged plus size section for women. Meanwhile, men are forced to squeeze into the largest sizes of clothing or shop in the dreaded big and tall section, which is notoriously unfashionable. So, that begs the question: When will we (men) get a turn? Body appreciation will never live up to its name if certain body types are excluded. Men deserve the opportunity to dress fashionably at any size, just like women. A progressive brand makes a statement now and then. Sadly, they usually fizzle out after a short period of time. Perhaps someday it will spark mainstream interest.
It’s 2023, we’re waiting.