Maga is in meltdown over a preppy pink sweater for men. So, what exactly is the problem? | Ellie Violet Bramley
In a striking reflection of contemporary gender norms and the fragility of masculinity within certain segments of American society, a seemingly innocuous pink jumper from J Crew has ignited a fervent backlash among some conservative circles. The sweater, characterized by its classic crew neck, wool fabric, and a simple Fair Isle pattern, has become a flashpoint for discussions about masculinity and fashion. The uproar began with a tweet from conservative commentator Juanita Broaddrick, who questioned whether men would dare to wear the $168 garment. The responses were overwhelmingly negative, revealing a deep-seated discomfort with the color pink and what it represents in the context of traditional masculinity. Comments ranged from dismissive to vehement, with some users asserting that they would not even allow pink items in their homes, highlighting a rigid adherence to outdated gender norms.
This incident underscores a broader cultural narrative where the expression of masculinity is often tied to rigid stereotypes, particularly within certain political factions. The vehement rejection of the sweater, with one user likening it to something a “sorority girl would wear in the 80s,” illustrates a societal anxiety about gender roles that seems increasingly out of step with modern sensibilities. In a time when discussions about gender fluidity and the breaking down of traditional gender barriers are more prevalent than ever, the backlash against a simple pink sweater reveals just how fragile and reactive these notions of masculinity can be. It prompts a reflection on why something as benign as a piece of clothing can elicit such strong reactions, suggesting that for some, the fear of being perceived as less than masculine is a powerful motivator in their public expressions and personal choices.
This controversy not only highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding gender identity and expression but also serves as a reminder of the cultural shifts that continue to challenge conservative views on masculinity. As society evolves, so too do the expectations and definitions of what it means to be a man, and the reaction to the J Crew jumper is a testament to the discomfort that can arise when those definitions are challenged. The incident may seem trivial, but it speaks volumes about the current state of masculinity in America and the ongoing struggle for acceptance of diverse expressions of gender identity.
The outrage a J Crew jumper has provoked shows that the US right’s sense of masculinity is far more fragile than it would care to admit
A men’s jumper by the all-American preppy label J Crew has sent thousands of Maga Americans into meltdown. From a fashion point of view, it couldn’t be more innocuous. It’s got a crew neck. It’s made from wool. It has a Fair Isle pattern at the upper yoke. There’s nothing asymmetric about it, no fringing or tassels, no slogan blasted across the front; no “Make America Kind Again”. So what’s the big deal? Reader, the jumper is
pink
.
The main storm broke underneath a tweet by conservative
social media commentator Juanita Broaddrick
, in which she asked: “Are you kidding me?? Men, would you wear this $168 sweater?” The consensus among her followers was a resounding no, and not because of its price. “No man in my family would wear it!” wrote “MOMof DataRepublican”. “My husband wouldn’t use a pink bathroom towel,” assured another. Another X user was even more passionate: “HELL NO. I’m a man, not gay and won’t be dressing up as a Golden Girl anytime soon.” Tim Burchett, a Tennessee Republican congressman,
called the sweater
“something a sorority girl would wear in the 80s”. I think he meant it witheringly; I read that and think it sounds quite fun.
Ellie Violet Bramley is a freelance writer
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