Metrosexual: The Man of the Twenty-First Century

Two decades ago it was inconceivable to imagine men being concerned of their personal aesthetics: hand care, skin, hair, feet, clothing and all those little details that are considered as the epitome of femininity amongst women. However, changes in global trends have affected our country, and the concept of the metrosexual man has entered our doors.

Surely you've noticed that for many years, men have become more committed to taking care of their appearance, taking better care how they dress, how they fix their hair, and in general men are leaving behind the male attitude which decades ago neglected those areas.

The change is not only superficial, men today seem to be more aware that for women it is also important to have a partner capable of taking care of the children, cooking and being open to show their emotions. Women now look for men that are lovers but also partners and advisors of good taste. The result of a man that possesses all these qualities is labeled as a metrosexual .

If you think carefully, rude heartthrobs like Clint Eastwood, James Dean and Charles Bronson have been replaced by more sophisticated men like George Clooney or Johnny Depp. This reflects the way modern men have had to adapt to the needs and demands of the type of lover that women seek and want.

But in order to measure up to these demands, the effort has to be big. A change from head to toe and adapting to a whole new attitude isn't achieved overnight.

A good place to start for a common man that wants to adapt to a more metrosexual lifestyle is a beauty salon, but not just to find a modern style that mimics that of a known celebrity. Younger generation between 15 and 20 years are not afraid to experiment with dyes and rays and even a manicure or pedicure.

Clothing is also important to get in with the new era. Designers like Dolce & Gabbana, which offer a casual style that combines elements inspired by Italian styles is usually the favorite style for men in this group.

Although the younger crowd has taken a leap into the world of fashion quicker, there are certain features that are setting their own trends. Unlike their female counterparts, they strive for every piece of clothing to emphasize their individuality, which ensures that the combination is unique and makes them feel that they have their own style.

But being a metrosexual man goes beyond having a good haircut and dress well. The change involves all aspects of life. Body care is also important, hence we observe the proliferation of gyms and greater demand for foods that are low in calories and fat.

This increased interest in staying fit has not been overlooked by big companies and advertising agencies. It is them who have launched all sorts of products to exploit this market, which for years wasn't a big industry for men.

A look at the shelves of major retailers will allow you to see the remarkable proliferation of products to enhance the masculine appearance. The idea is that the ends justify the means.

But where does the metrosexual term come from? Mark Simpson was the Englishman who invented it in 1994, the term defines the new man as someone who is in balance with his feminine side and makes no effort to hide it. The term comes from the word metropolis or city, and makes it clear that these men are city people, who like the refined things in life and need to live in an urban area to be available to get the products and services they seek.

My Nippon, Metrosexual Lifestyle, Life Love & Fun