via GQUK GQMIDDLEEAST THETIMES
We’ve all witnessed the one and only Mo Salah’s latest photoshoot with GQ, which means we know that you, like every single Egyptian, DEFINITELY had some thoughts about it. But, let’s be real; everything Salah wore in that shoot is not what Egyptian men typically consider as part of their fashion.
Interestingly, this isn’t the only time this has happened. After Wegz’s last photoshoot—also by GQ, believe it or not—many people in Egypt, mostly men, weren’t all that pleased. No, none of them were saying that Wegz was a ‘fashion statement king’.
Men and Self-Expression through Fashion
Since it’s the 21st century, we think it’s well past the time that men started comfortably expressing themselves through fashion, without being called unnecessary weird names, being degraded for being ‘feminine’ or getting comments that assault their self-esteem and self-worth.
But why do men hurl these comments at other men who are just living their lives? Because that’s a little thing we like to call TOXIC MASCULINITY.
What is toxic masculinity, you may ask?
Just as toxic as most relationships these days are, if not worse (sorry, not sorry), toxic masculinity drives men to act a certain “manly” way, so people will see them as “masculine” and “strong”. However, it isn’t always about that, as men struggle every day because of the frames they’re put in by society or their households.
When a man challenges social norms and freely expresses himself in society (especially in a society like Egypt), he is seen as weak and vulnerable. Men aren’t even allowed to cry or be sad and heartbroken because it’s not ‘manly’. However, we want them to challenge that—express yourself however you like without being toxic to other people. For real, just express yourself!
GQ and its photoshoots
Let us ask you a simple question: Would you feel the same way about Mo Salah or Wegz if it was Harry Styles’ fashion that you saw pose for this type of GQ photoshoot? Or is this just the sentiment because Wegz is our favourite Egyptian rapper, and Salah is the GOAT of football right now? We say let the Egyptian king express himself and let Wagouza have his moment WITHOUT the double standard!
We get it, guys; men don’t have the privilege to dress freely in Egypt because sweats and suits are the only socially acceptable thing they can be seen wearing. Would it be so terrible to dress in a more fun way, though? Have you ever thought about what could happen if maybe you had that option? You can start trying and be fearless while doing it!
