Giving a second glance to a touch of pink in your wardrobe as a man is no longer a thing of the past, as the trend of wearing pink has surged in popularity with the release of the 2023 film ‘Barbie’.
According to Tony Cook, “Sporting pink automatically conveys confidence to people. It’s all about finding the right shades that complement your skin tone.”
From the hues of sunsets to the blush of roses and the sparkle of summer wines, pink possesses the remarkable ability to enhance the beauty of various elements.
“The primary concern for men when it comes to wearing pink is the fear of appearing effeminate,” says Dan May, the contributing style director at Mr. Porter. “But there are no boundaries when it comes to colours. It’s all about how you style it and the self-assuredness with which you carry it off.” Interestingly, prior to the 20th century, baby boys were often dressed in pink, as it was considered akin to red and therefore seen as a strong and masculine colour.
It wasn’t until some misguided mid-century interpretations of neuroscience suggested that women preferred redder hues that the shift away from pink for boys began. This misconception was further fuelled by Barbie’s iconic hot pink convertible, while Action Man sported military fatigues.
In the realm of fashion, pink has triumphed over negative stereotypes to attain its current level of acceptance. More and more designers and men are now embracing this colour that was once associated with femininity.
Pink can be incorporated into every aspect of men’s clothing and for every occasion, whether it’s casual, formal, athletic, or even in accessories such as shoes, ties, belts, lapel roses, and breast pocket squares. If you’re new to this colour, it’s a good idea to start small.
Here are some tips for rocking pink:
- Pair pink with complementary colours, similar tones, or even pastels.
- Introduce a contrasting colour like black to prevent yourself from looking washed out.
- Pink is well-suited for casual streetwear, but pink suits can also make a bold statement.
- Consider adding black or silver accessories to balance the vibrancy of the colour.
Above all, the most crucial tip is to wear your pink attire with confidence. Confidence is the key to pulling off any outfit. Embrace the boldness of the colour and make it your own. Remember that fashion is a means of self-expression. Happy adventuring with your styling!
