Reflections on "The Metrosexual Guide to Style"

So...you might be asking, "Michael, didn't you just read a book about style?" If you think that I have a newfound obsession about style, then you would be mistaken. However, I do feel that, as I advance in my career and in life, that it is important to know what people are looking for in a potential hire, client, colleague, etc. Also, I do not usually accept one perspective on any topic as the definitive end-all be-all. I was able to purchase this book online for under $5.00 after shipping, so I figured it was worth picking up. According to the New Oxford American Dictionary, metrosexual is defined as: a young, urban, heterosexual male, with liberal political views, an interest, in fashion, and a refined sense of taste. As a student of sociology, I feel that this definition is extremely ambiguous, as metrosexual is described very subjectively. Also, there is an inherent judgment call on what is considered good and respectable with the use of "liberal" and "refined." What is liberal? What is refined? At what point does somebody cross from culturally knowledgeable to metrosexual? However, that discussion is best saved for another time and place. (Dissertation anyone?)

In any case, Michael Flocker writes a very readable overview of what he believes it means to be a metrosexual, which he defines as: 1-twenty-first century male trendsetter. 2-straight, urban man with heightened aesthetic sense. 3-man who spends time and money on appearance and shopping. 4-man willing to embrace his feminine side. This definition is a little easier to grasp conceptually. The Metrosexual Guide To Style: A Handbook for the Modern Man covers several topics ranging form general etiquette, to art and culture, and "The Metrosexual Mindset." While Flocker does a decent job of delivering a crash course on the style and knowledge base of a so-called metrosexual, the course seems to be a reiteration of generally accepted behavior and tastes of a "gentleman." For those of you seeking a book that will teach you what you need to knowbecome a gentleman, this may not be for you. If that's what you're looking for, you would probably be more successful at becoming gentlemanlike by becoming more considerate of others and to yourself. The book will most likely be more beneficial for those looking for a list of topics to further research.

Well, that's my take on The Metrosexual Guide To Style: A Handbook for the Modern Man. I did think it was an interesting read, and it does provide a brief overview of some things that are regarding as gentlemanlike or metrosexual in the current American culture. However, I can't help but note the limitation that it simply does not provide a true guide to style, which would be an extraordinary feat to accomplish in any work. Also, this work does not allow for much variation among the opinions provided. Are all metrosexuals supposed to think and dress the same? Is there any room for deviation? That's for you to decide. Like I said, I think it is an interesting read, and would definitely recommend it, especially if you want to run with some of the ideas and topics. If you're trying to find some ideas of what to read about in order to impress your friends or coworkers (depending on who they are) you might be able to find a list of things to read about here.

Bibliographic Information:

Flocker, M. (2003). The Metrosexual Guide To Style: A Handbook for the Modern Man. New York, NY, USA: De Capo Press.