History
The term Metrosexual was first coined in 1994 in an article by Mark Simpson in The Independent, a British online newspaper. The term was popular in the late 1990s through the early 2000s. By 2011 the term was becoming cliche. I wanted to take a fun look back and revive this term for the next few minutes of reading time.
What is a Metrosexual?
So, just what is a Metrosexual? You may ask. Let’s get on our ellipticals and let me explain this to you.
Merriam Webster Dictionary: Usually a suburban (or urban) heterosexual male given to enhancing his personal appearance by fastidious grooming, beauty treatments, and fashionable clothes.
A metrosexual … is happy getting a pedicure and a manicure. He’s hip, urban, sophisticated and, above all, stylish. —Rebecca Paley
From Wikipedia: The typical metrosexual is a young man with money to spend, living in or within easy reach of a metropolis—because that’s where all the best shops, clubs, gyms, and hairdressers are.
The term does not assert whether a metrosexual is heterosexual, gay or a bisexual man, and the gender or sexual orientation of a metrosexual is generally ambiguous and differs in every man.
From the Urban Dictionary: A man who has refined tastes in urban art, fashion, cuisine, literature, high culture and generally processes liberal political and social views. Despite common misconceptions metrosexuality can encompass all sexual orientations.
The earliest examples of Metrosexuality was with the 15th Century British and French nobles.
Men such as David Becker, Brad Pitt, Ryan Seacrest, Brandon Routh, Marc d’Avignon, Rafael Nadal, Derrick Rose, Alex Rodriguez, Matt Kemp, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gerhard Joubert, Harry Styles, and Zac Efron have been described as Metrosexual.
The Quiz
The following quiz is an exercise to gauge your level of Metrosexuality. So, get that last strand of hair in place and have fun.
1. Do you use mousse or gel in your hair? 2 pts
2. Do you own more than 20 pairs of shoes? 4 pts
3. Do you visit a salon to have your haircut and styled? 5 pts
4. Are you in touch with your emotions? 2 pts
5. Do you love to shop? 3 pts
6. Do you get your nails manicured/pedicured? 5 pts
7. Are you in the gym or do you work out at least four times a week? 3 pts
8. Do you have a facial done at least once a week? 4 pts
9. Do you practice aromatherapy or keep scented candles in your home? 2 pts
10. Do you live in the suburbs or in a metropolitan area or city? 2 pts
11. Do you have a selection of skincare products? 3 pts
12. Do you own dress shirts in every color including multi-color and flower print? 2 pts
13. Do you own a few pairs of designer jeans? 3 pts
14. Do you moisturize and exfoliate? 3 pts
15. Do you color coordinate? 2 pts
16. Do you manscape? (don’t worry we won’t tell anybody) 3 pts
17. Are you in touch with your feminine side? 3 pts
18. Does your diet include a considerable amount of greens? 1 pt
Where Do You Rank?
43 – 50 pts You are a diehard Metro. You look good and feel good. People (both men and women) are always taking a second look because they are either attracted or they want to be you.
35 to 42 pts You’re on your way to becoming a diehard Metro. You just need some fine-tuning. Maybe get a weekly exfoliating facial and buy yourself a two-tone Stefano Ricci dress shirt. And don’t forget the Dior water bottle with strap.
27 to 34 You’re a weekend closet Metro. Isn’t it time you came out of your aromatic cedar lined closet?
18 to 26 One day a week isn’t enough. Get serious about the gym. Put some color in your hair. Get yourself some royal blue or bright yellow shoes.
9 To 17 You’re Walmart trying to pass yourself off as Neiman Marcus. Stop it. Just stop it.
1 to 8 You are so not in the right place. But if you really put the money and work into it you can get there. You’ll have to move to an upscale apartment. Throw out all your clothes and start over. You might even consider a plastic surgeon and The Hair Club for Men.
Thanks pals! Maybe next time we’ll talk about War Paint a facial foundation for men!!!