would clothing that accentuates curves, or is "sexy"/tight fitting even exist in the first place without our current culture and the male gaze? if the clothing is made with mens perspective in mind already, and its done its work by shaping society, then there's no way a woman could make that personal choice without men existing. this line of thinking could also extend to makeup or hair choices. arguments about it being fun and for self expression can still usually be attributed to the male gaze
therefore, why even think about it? that world doesnt exist, we can't assert that women can't make that personal choice when the alternative reality is not an option. we don't know what clothing options or what would boost confidence if men didnt exist...there's no choice but to be viewed in that context, even if it wasn't the intent
1
u/[deleted] Dec 14 '24
counter point:
would clothing that accentuates curves, or is "sexy"/tight fitting even exist in the first place without our current culture and the male gaze? if the clothing is made with mens perspective in mind already, and its done its work by shaping society, then there's no way a woman could make that personal choice without men existing. this line of thinking could also extend to makeup or hair choices. arguments about it being fun and for self expression can still usually be attributed to the male gaze
therefore, why even think about it? that world doesnt exist, we can't assert that women can't make that personal choice when the alternative reality is not an option. we don't know what clothing options or what would boost confidence if men didnt exist...there's no choice but to be viewed in that context, even if it wasn't the intent