Are you a Man Repeller? The term was coined by fashion blogger Leandra Medine, and is used to describe anyone who “[dresses] oneself in a sartorially offensive mode that may result in repelling members of the opposite sex.”
Recently, Miley Cyrus has been taking over our iPhones with her envelope-pushing looks. Clad in thigh-high boots and teddy bear onesies, the former child star has reinvented herself in true Madonna fashion. However, rumours are rampant that her newfound fashion freedom lead to her split from fiancé Liam Hemsworth.
True or not, these rumours are sending quite the message to style risk-takers. Yes, we all know what works on the runway doesn’t always translate well in real life, but what exactly constitutes “man repelling”? Are we ladies turning off potential suitors in the name of fashion?
To find out more, I was going to have to speak with a real man. Nate Peardon is a STU student and your typical college guy. I needed that typical college guy outlook and he was more than happy to oblige.
When it comes to looks, Peardon takes a surprisingly lax approach.
“I think that a girl’s style is a reflection of her personality,” he said. “So, it’s not up to me to decide what personality a girl can have, nor what style should reflect it.”
Cyrus’ new fashion sense has not only sparked public interest, but has also given her a reputation as a Hollywood bad girl. Is it a true reflection of her personality or are we just judging the girl by the hot-pants?
“If that is what you are comfortable in, I’m not one to judge,” said Peardon.
When your beau dumps you, it’s usually because you’re not his type. If guys have a favourite personality type, does that mean they have a favourite fashion type?
“If I were to choose a style, I’d say that I have to conform to society and go with a girly girl type,” said Peardon. However, he maintains that he’s not particular when it comes to fashion.
Peardon believes that there’s a myth about STU girls.
“The consensus is that as a liberal arts school, STU kind of has the expectation of girls dressing strangely,” he said. He admits he’s seen his share of “crazy styles” across campus, but doesn’t think STU deserves a reputation for man repelling.
So, perhaps the average collegiate doesn’t always care what the ladies are wearing.
“Looks aren’t everything,” said Peardon. That’s good news for all of the mini-Mileys out there.
I leave you this week with my own piece of advice, be a Man Repeller. Take risks, be fearless and be yourself. A good guy accepts you for who you are – teddy bear onesie and all.
