Many items we consider “feminine” today actually started out as men’s products. It’s funny how things change over time, isn’t it? From high heels to perfume, I compiled 15 everyday items that were initially made for guys.
High heels
Believe it or not, high heels were first worn by men in Persia for horse riding. They helped keep feet in stirrups. Later, European aristocratic men wore them to appear taller and more powerful. It wasn’t until the 18th century that women started wearing them as a fashion statement.
Makeup
Ancient Egyptian men wore eyeliner and other cosmetics to protect their skin from the sun. In fact, makeup was seen as a sign of wealth and status for men in many ancient cultures. It wasn’t until the 1800s that makeup became associated mainly with women.
Perfume
Perfume was originally used by men in ancient civilizations for religious ceremonies. Egyptian pharaohs were buried with perfumes, and Roman emperors bathed in scented oils. It was considered a luxury item for men long before women started using it regularly.
Skirts and dresses
In many ancient cultures, men wore skirt-like garments, such as Scottish kilts or Roman togas. Pants only became common for men in the Western world during the Middle Ages. Before that, skirts and dresses were the norm for both genders.
Pink clothing
Until the 1940s, pink was considered a masculine color. It was seen as a lighter shade of red, which represented strength and power. Blue was actually the color for girls. The switch happened gradually in the mid-20th century due to marketing and changing social norms.
Wigs
Powdered wigs were a status symbol for men in 17th and 18th century Europe. They were so popular that some men shaved their heads to wear wigs more comfortably. Women later adopted the trend, but it started as a masculine fashion statement.
Handbags
Men’s bags, or “girdles,” were common in the 15th century. They were used to carry money and other small items. As men’s clothing started to include pockets, bags became less necessary for them and more associated with women’s fashion.
Jewelry
For most of history, men wore just as much jewelry as women, if not more. Pharaohs, kings, and nobles often wore elaborate necklaces, rings, and earrings. It wasn’t until the 19th and 20th centuries that jewelry became more associated with women in Western culture.
Leggings
Leggings were originally worn by men for warmth and protection. Native American men wore leather leggings, and European men wore them under armor. They evolved into tight-fitting trousers for men before becoming a primarily women’s garment in the 20th century.
Crop tops
Crop tops for men were popular in the 1970s and 1980s. They were worn by athletes and bodybuilders to show off their physiques. Over time, they became more associated with women’s fashion, but they’re making a comeback in men’s style today.
Skincare products
Ancient Roman men used face creams and oils to keep their skin looking good. In fact, skincare was seen as important for men throughout history. It only became “feminine” in the 20th century due to marketing, but now it’s becoming popular with men again.
Corsets
Corsets were worn by both men and women in the 17th century to create a straight posture and flat torso. Men’s corsets were called “stays.” While they fell out of fashion for men, they remained popular for women well into the 20th century.
Fur coats
Fur coats were originally a symbol of male wealth and power. Kings and noblemen wore them to show off their status. It wasn’t until the 20th century that fur coats became more associated with women’s luxury fashion.
Umbrellas
When umbrellas were first introduced in England in the 18th century, they were used exclusively by men. They were seen as a male status symbol. It took about 100 years for women to start using them regularly.
Stockings
In the 15th and 16th centuries, stockings were an essential part of men’s wardrobes. They were often brightly colored and made of expensive materials like silk. Women didn’t commonly wear stockings until much later when they became associated with feminine fashion.
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