The 21st Century has opened our eyes to new interpretations, new ideas and new philosophies. With all these floating around though, I have one question: why are there still no plus-size men in advertising?
In media, I see two different depictions of men. The first is the traditional Greco-Roman style.
Hopefully, anyone who ever took an art class knows what I am talking about. For those who don’t know what the Greco-Roman style is, imagine He-Man swoll as hell. It shouldn’t be too hard.
The second depiction is a newer style, which is something that reflects more of a realistic human appearance.
Thankfully, advertising is starting to move away from this Greco-Roman style that has been getting such negative views and is shifting toward showing people in a more realistic sense.
Dove’s “Love Your Body” campaign was very successful for women, encouraging all shapes and sizes, and it opened discussion for change and greater acceptance in the industry.
This is a good step forward for women, but what about men?
When I watch any form of media, the Greek gods and their .01 percent body fat are flaunting their obnoxiously disproportionate bodies and stomachs with more abs than humanly possible all over said media. This is something that all males have to deal with, no matter who they are.
Double standards are not really equal. We are witnesses of a clash in ideals and the meaning of true beauty.
I won’t hold my breath as I wait to see the day when a plus-size male with a neck beard is used for a shampoo commercial and not just comic relief. Until then, just watch “The Twilight Zone” episode “The Eye of the Beholder,” and maybe you will realize that it doesn’t matter what the media thinks.
I accept that I am no He-Man in any way, even though I used to have his hairstyle back in high school. If we are a generation that is focused on equality over double standards, then let’s actually deal with both sides and not just the female standards.
Advertising should be held to a higher standard, not functioning as a double standard.
