Somewhere around the 90s a new breed of men began to exist. I use the word exist and not evolve as I’m not entirely sure whether it is an improvement or a degradation or just a parallel strain. This new breed of men brought out how thin the line had become between the two genders. Even though women’s suffrage happened long ago and we started wearing pants as soon as they came into fashion, the male discovery of their feminine side took a little longer to show itself. But when it arrived it shook us like never before.
History holds tales of many women who took on roles which put their male counterparts to shame. But how many tales have we heard of men taking on the roles of women and beating them at it? Even time itself watched in bewilderment when the metrosexuals slowly but surely started creeping into society. They were prettier than us, more fashion conscious than us, and yes more high maintenance than us too.
They make weekly trips to the beauty salon where they get the essential facials, manicures and pedicures. A quick trip to the grocery store requires half an hour to pick something to wear and another hour to make sure their hair is just right. Their shoes sparkle just as much as their clothes and their bling. There are now entire ranges of beauty products just for men. Even fashion weeks have spring and summer lines exclusively for them.
As individuals I have as much respect for them as any other person in the world. But how drastic an impact does this phase shift have on the dynamics of relationships? I for one am at a complete loss as to what I’m supposed to do while my boyfriend stands in front of the mirror fixing his hair for hours. Slowly but surely dawns on me that I might be turning out to be the man in the relationship.
Is that what new age relationships will look like? Will the woman of the house be the first person you turn to when a pipe needs to be fixed? Will our boyfriends be standing pretty as we change the flat tyre? Will they take it for granted that when we go on a date the girl will pay and hence not even offer to? Is holding doors open and pulling up chairs a thing of the past? Can women no longer expect pretty gifts? Will we be the ones now buying jewellery for our significant other? Will we now be protecting our men from other girls who hit on them?
Having seen the dark side of the male ego for many years it is certainly a refreshing change to see this softer breed. However I hope they realise how soft is too soft before it’s too late. Come what may I am still charmed by the guy who holds the door open for me and brings me flowers. The idea of him defending and fighting for me will still sweep me away. Even though I know I am completely capable of taking care of myself, every girl dreams of being a princess whose every tantrum is cherished by her prince.
In spite of all the face packs and styling gels, I wish the men of the world should still be able to play a Knight in shining armour when their damsel is in distress. Under all the layers of make-up I hope they still know how to be a man in all the right senses of the word....
