 The age of the metrosexual has come and gone. The term "ubersexual" has become the way to describe a macho, stylish, well groomed man. Yet even in a time when it's become acceptable to find shelves full of product in a man's medicine cabinet, when it comes to male nails, the evolution has come to a standstill. |
 Yes, there are exceptions to that. I mean, who hasn't drooled over Dave Navarro (pictured right with Zac Efron) and his black painted nails at some point? But outside the rock world, is nail polish acceptable for a man?I remember the first time I came across a boy wearing any form of nail polish was during my summer break from college. I worked at an amusement park on Lake Erie called Cedar Point. And for those of you not in the know, it's kind of a Midwest mecca for young gay men. One of my buddies there, who was very "out" and comfortable with himself, wore clear nail polish and while it didn't totally stand out, it was considered "different" for the time. Since I thought he was a big ball of fabulous, I never really gave it a second thought. |
 Flash forward to 2007. When one of my male friends found out about my blog and discovered my affection for polish, he jokingly asked me to paint his toes silver. Little did I know, he was serious. In fact, this past summer he borrowed polish from me twice to give himself a pedicure (once while drunk after a long day of wine tasting). Both times he chose dark, grungy "masculine" shades; a gunmetal gray from Sleek UK and Sally Hansen Stormy Blue (pictured left). And while it might not have been his intention to use the polish as a chick magnet, it certainly did get girls talking to him. |
Then a few weeks back, Darren Garnick, a reporter for the Boston Herald, contacted me about his experience getting a fish pedicure, wanting my feedback on his choice of polish (pictured left). As I told him for his follow up humor essay, he certainly didn't half ass it when he chose OPI Osaka-To-Me Orange for his pedicure shade. Not necessarily fall appropriate, he would have been totally "in" this past summer when bright orange was all the rage.Coincidentally, since hearing from Darren I've also received quite a few emails from men that enjoy wearing polish on their toes. The consensus seems to be that for most of those men, they wear the polish only for their mate, not in public. That it's a bonding thing for them and their partner but that they'd be embarrassed to wear color in public.
So while it's become perfectly acceptable to see a man getting a manicure or pedicure with no polish, color seems to be taboo. What do you think fanatics? Can men wear lacquer? When is it OK? What guys can pull it off? Does it only work in the rock scene? Can they wear any color or only black and gray? I'm sure there are some lurking male readers that would love to hear your thoughts.
images: AllLacqueredUp.com, WireImage, BostonHerald
75 comments:
I like guys wearing black or dark nail polish if they're going to do it every day. Other colors are good if you're going to a club.
Penn of Penn and Teller wears nail polish I think, and several musicians do, so it's definitely becoming more common to see.
My husband wears black, but he also loves China Glaze's Lubu Heels because of the red flecks for costumes and clubbing.
For me it depends on the color, like Phyrra I say dark or black. When I was in LA on my way to Paris, I was standing in line at security behind the hottest guy I had ever seen in my life. When I saw his toes were painted black, he got even hotter. :)
1. He has nice toes for a guy
2. I think boys-n-polish is a no-no
3. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my fellow fanatics a very Restful, Peaceful and Love Filled Thanksgiving!
God Bless you all!
I like my men manly- Lift heavy things, play football, grunt alot manly. While my partner looooves himself a hand or foot rub as much as I do, the one time i tricked him into polish he freaked. I had been giving him a pedi when he fell asleep. When he woke up he was sporting a dark purple sparkle by OPI that I can not for the life of me remember the name of. I enjoyed practicing my skills on feet other than my own. He on the other hand refused to leave his room even to go get the polish remover from the bathroom. It was mildly amusing for me but kind of annoying to him :-)
Yeah sorry no. Polish on guys is defintly a turn off. I don't think it works on anyguy anywhere anyhow. Not sexy. I think it would make the guy seem effeminate and personally I want my guy to be manly.
I also saw Darren's "Fish Pedicure" article and I was totally amazed at the flourish of comments on his blog, as well as many others (mostly nail polish blogs). The comments came from both men and women, and a surprising number of them were very positive about men wearing nail polish!
not surprisingly, there was also quite a bit of support expressed for men getting pedicures too, probably because most men's feet don't typically get much care or maintenance.
I have actually been wearing my toes polished since my wife introduced me to this about four years ago. I had for some time taken an interest and appreciation in the many cool colors she paints her nails with, and one day she just suggested that I try it. It worked for me, and we both liked it, so I was instantly hooked (unlike your husband)!
Why shouldn't men wear their nails painted? It certainly is not going to change their sexual preference. Besides, it is quite a bit of an improvment over what most men's nails look like.
Obviously, my wife and I are in favor of it. I honestly hope your post encourages more men to try it too. I can say that it's been fun for my wife and I to do this together.
Painted nails on rock guys looks interesting to me, but I don't think I'd appreciate my husband doing it (and he would not, as the engineer type that isn't his thing or his fashion sense). However, more men should get pedicures - feet don't have to be scary and nasty. Even a bit of time with the pumice and cuticle remover at home would be such an improvement for so many!
Pedicures and manicures, yes. Polish, no. And this is very sexist of me, but both the guys in the photos have girly feet. Nice feet, of course, but girly just the same.
I suppose it does depend on the color. There was a guy in my class who was so comfortable with himself that he wore a bright hot pink (He's not even gay) I guess I don't mind unless the color he's wearing is nicer than mine D: I tried Kaleidoscope on my boyfriend :p
I don't really think men and colored polish go together. I view nail polish as make-up, and I think that make-up is for women. It's like seeing a man with bright red lipstick!
But if men want to wear polish, I say go for it! I myself don't like it but that's just my opinion. I believe people should do whatever makes them happy (as long as you're not hurting anybody of course :) )
My husband had a few too many beers one night and fell asleep on the sofa, so he ended up with bright red toenails, the day before his jiu-jitsu tournament! That was fun!
He's a rather manly man, but I introduced him to a nail buffer, and he really liked how it made his nails look. However, he chews his nails down to the quick, they wouldn't look good painted.
It's cool though, men who wear polish. I dig it!
I have to respect any guy willing to paint his nails. It's something they're likely to get a lot of crap for from peers, so to do it anyway implies confidence which is always attractive.
As to whether or not I actually not the polish rather than the attitude it alludes to, it depends on whether it's done well. Same goes for makeup. I love both polish and makeup, so if I see it done well on a guy, it's going to attract my interest. Not necessarily in a "oooh that's hot!" sort of way but a "oooh that looks nifty! I need to get that color for myself!" sort of way.
I think it's interesting enough and I encourage people (of either gender) to do what they enjoy and feel good about.
HOWEVER, my personal preference is a big old "NO". It's just too feminine in my opinion, for men to wear nail color. I would be a little weirded out if my husband wanted to get his toenails done, but I'm into the very "guys guy" sort of men.
Both of the photos immediately made me think of women. That is not a slight to either man, but that's the honest truth!
I think that rockers and artsy types can get away with it. But that is about it!
Wow. Let me first start by admitting that I've had nail polish on my nails before. I was a young piano player who had a very bad habit of biting my nails. My fingers were a mess and my then girlfriend suggested that letting them grow and applying clear nail polish was the way to go. Of course my male friends let me have it for days but till this day I have good looking finger nails (though without nail polish).
This brings me to my point, I think only there are only two instances where nail polish on a man is acceptable. One is to restore your nails to a degree of health and two is because you work with your hands in a way that brings attention to them and so you have to take extra care of them. In both instances clear nail polish is the way to go and that's only if you're desperate cause my finger nails look great without it and that's been the case for years now.
I get the whole relationship bonding thing but sorry there are other ways to bind that don't require becoming a "gurlyman." Have some pride and backbone and say no guys. Damn. Bond through shopping together, talking, being in each others presence, spending quality time together and etc; whatever but let her do her nails with her girlfriends and keep it moving. Next thing you know bonding is going to requre wigs, dresses, panty hose and lipstick. Ugh!
Will the wimpification of this nation ever end?
I appear to be in the minority here, but I think (black/dark) polish on a guy is *HOT*, and would love for my husband to rock it! Unfortunately, he's a professional and also unwilling.
I blame Spike (from Buffy) for my male-polish lust.
Umm..no. I have to be the girl and only girls wear colored nail polish. Hope you and yours have a beauty full Thanksgiving!
I don't care about the color although hot pink might be little weird. I think it's the shape that's important and men definitely should not wear it long and squaoval like we do. They should develope a masculine way to wear nail polish (other than manglaze). Like one stripe of color in each nail would be cool. 10 years ago, men earings weren't accepted. Now, it's like a requirement for a badass image. SO I'm optimistic about men mani/pedis in the future.
p.s. I'm addicted to your site. You are solely responsible for that B I got in Economics. (haha jk)
Men with well groomed feet and hands- YES!!
(In fact...feet that don´t get cared for are just nasty.)
Nail polish? NO!!! Total turn-off!
That´s MY personal preferance.
I am a man, and I wear polish from time to time. Why not?
I am not gay, and it usually never gets seen. But its fun and interesting.
Wearing OPI "Can you dig it?" now.
I think too many women are jealous that men can take care of themselves too.
Why ever not? If he likes it, and it makes him happy, it's all good, whether he's a rocker or a computer geek.
I saw all the more power to the boys who want to look fabulous!
I think more men should get manicures and pedicures, there is nothing wrong with looking after your hands/feet. However I personally don't like polish on mens toenails, to me it's horrible, especially bright colours.
But I have to agree with Trina, sometimes black/dark polish can look incredibly sexy on a guys fingernails (I also agree that Spike on buffy rocked that look and also Dave Navarro in the blog) I think they do have to have the whole image to with it though. It would not look so great on my guy unless he was dressed the part too.
Hm, I don't have a problem with polish on a man, whether mani or pedi. Why should we females have all the color fun? I just want it to look like he takes care of his hands and feet.
Think back to Renaissance dress for men ... and you know women swooned for Henry the VIII, a guy that loved his frilly bits.
I don't think we are making guys wimpy or feminine when you tell them, "You don't have to be so aggressive. You can express yourself in other ways."
Likewise with gals when you say, "You don't have to like pink. You can enjoy watching or playing football."
I think these extreme gender stereotypes hurt rather than help. Manly girl or girly man, what does this actually mean? That someone isn't following some traditional role that someone else wants them to follow.
BTW, I should mention that I am a biologist and have a bunch of species examples (i.e. birds, ungulates) where the males are much more exuberantly plumed than the females.
I think it makes them less masculine. It's a metrosexual look to me and I'm definitely not attracted to metrosexuals. It's a turn off.
I don't seem to understand why the dynamic has shifted.
There was a time, not that long ago, when there were certain items of clothing that were "forbidden" by the opposite gender. For instance, women were not allowed to wear jeans or pants. Men were not allowed to wear t-shirts. Now, we have a bright new world in which anyone can do pretty much anything they want--in a fashion sense--and get away with it. Women wear jeans, men wear skirts (although, admittedly, not as often) and I see no reason why anything should be taboo at this point. Women fought valiantly for the right to wear whatever they wanted, so why should men be denied the same rights? If men want to wear skirts, pantyhose, nail polish, makeup, heels, or whatever, who are we to say that they shouldn't? I think it speaks volumes about the character of this country and this world that we are able to make decisions based not entirely upon what will bring us the most social indifference, but what we like. I personally am a very happily married man (to a woman) and I regularly wear nail polish on both fingernails and toenails. I have not encountered many objections to this, aside from the occassional snicker from the girls in the mall or a curious onlooker, who simply asks me why (to which I answer why not?). This is not a cry for help. I have no desire nor intention of purusing a life as a woman. I am not gay. I do not see it as a "fetish." I am simply comfortable enough with who I am to let myself be myself. And it's a shame that everyone doesn't hold themselves to those same standards. Stop worrying about what the world thinks of you and start worrying about the fact that one day you will be dead. Enjoy the things that you enjoy today. And damn the consequences.
For something as seemingly innocent as nail polish, this subject has brought forth an impressive diversity of opinions.
For what it's worth, I have always been intrigued by nail polish. I love the way women wear it, the wide range of seductive colors, the glossy finish, the shape of their nails and how it makes their fingers look long, feminine and very attractive.
That said, I would not be opposed to considering this further with the right woman. The quality of the relationship would of course play a part, but if she found it attractive that I wear nail polish, it would be an interesting and different direction that I would be open to exploring with her.
I can understand why some women would not be as excited about this, if it was 'right' in their situation. But I also applaud the many here who have expressed their open-mindedness and think that it might be intriguing to try.
This is probably one of the more controversial, yet compelling topics I have come across in quite a while. It is an inspiration to read your comments and understand that we all have different ways to express ourselves, and we all fit.
Oops, I guess one word left out can change an entire meaning...
I meant to say that if it was not 'right' in the relationship, I could understand why this would not work.
Well, for those who think that nail polish is an indication of sexual preference or orientation, look in the mirror first. As many have indicated; in the world of nature, it's usually the maile who is the more brightly colored one. This of course is to attract a mate and the female is less spectacular as a defense/safety mechanism for the offspring.
Now, I'd like to add my voice, as a mature married, straight male. I'm closer to retirement than not and have had mani-pedis for about 20 years now. I'm not gay, not a cross dresser, no fetishes, but probably a metrosexual - id that means taking care of myself so that I don't look my age. Business is brutal and finding myself already the recipient of age discrimination, looking my best and yonger than my real age is a necessary survivla skill. It also feels good to see an attractive, yonger female glance my way with a smile. I'm fit, play rough seniors ice hockey, shovel snow, cut the lawn and garden, work on my car, scoop out cat litter and many other so called "manly" things. I had several girlfriends before getting married 15 years ago. Guess what? I love having both hands and feet professionally manicured. As someone who teaches in front of audiences/classes, having a nice manicure provides confidence and a 'polished" and finished look to professional attire. I've never had a single comment. The wife of my barber and my Mom have said my nails look great. My wife likes it as well. She doesn't think the glitter polishes work so well for, and I agree. I told her though that I'd wear a very glittery polish for going out on new year's eve ;) Generally I wear clear but lately have used a very very sheer pink polish, OPI hearts & tarts. You have to look very close - I mean VERY close to tell it's something other than clear. It provides a very nice, even lustre, only a hint of color and only in direct sunlight can you see the extremely subtle sparkle. I've tried about 80 OPI and China Glaze for fun, in the house, but only wear the clear, sheer ones out. Monthly professional mani-pedis are a treat. Feels great. Why should only women get to pamper themselves? Is it manly to be getting grey, saggy, dry and rough skin everywhere, chipped, dirty and rough nails? Is that manly? My gawd, those of you who think that a man is defined by his rough hands, etc, are so archaic in your thinking that you're missing the big picture. As a previous post clearly said, we'll all be dead at sometime in the future. How we conduct ourselves in our life, how we treat others, the quality of good work that we do, how we care for those less fortunate is how we will be remembered and how our "image" and respect will be garnered - not by nail polish.
I *love* men in nail polish! I'm glad to see so many polish-wearing guys commenting on this topic.
It's disturbing to me the number of people whose gender stereotypes seem to be stuck in 1950. "Manly" versus "girly" - ugh, really? My DH is traditionally "manly", and yet he has gold toenails and paints his nails green for going out. Several of my exes paint their nails.
I think it's an excellent social signifier of someone who is less worried about silly socially-assigned gender roles and more interested in trying new things - nothing is sexier than a man with polish.
wow didn't realize you have many male readers here, way to go cincy!
hmm never thought about my preference before. i've never met a man wearing polish here in asia, but thinking of my SOs, i'd probably wouldn't mind if they wear it...
My mom (an ex-manicurist) has occasionally painted my stepdad's toenails. He's not really a self-indulgent type, being a traditional quiet old school Korean man, but he rocks the pedicure (in his sandals!) all summer long.
I think it's trendy for me to wear nail polish, as long as the color is masculine. Reds and pinks, no. I love that steely blue color on toes. I asked a few of my gay guy friends and they were not down with wearing nail polish. They thought it was only appropriate if the guy was into drag.
For me, it all depends on the event a guy is attending or the type of work he does.
Polish or no polish, I wish more men were into getting manicures, that's for sure!
Oh, goodness. Major typo alert! I should have typed the following:
I think it's trendy for MEN...
(I'm not a guy.)
I don't understand why so many people are against this. Men started with long hair, and then pierced ears (now on both ears), so why not nail polish or anything else for that matter.
I have been wearing polish for years and years, always on my toes, sometimes on my fingers.
I am married and straight and just enjoy the look.
I think anyone should be able to wear whatever they want regardless of gender. Granted one big problems many may have is that clothes are cut for certain body types however there has been a few attempts on the runway to put a guy in a skirt, or a pair of heels.
By the way - nail polish was actually started in ancient Egypt times as a sign for the MALE who is in power - in those days, a pharaoh or other leader/king. This is even depicted in the movie 300 and a few other's i've seen.
The concept of the polish was to show that they are in power and don't have to do any work.
The the girls took it over, like they do most fasion items such as heels (also designed for MEN in the 1600's)
I have been painting my toes on and off for about 8 years . for the last 6 months they have been painted all of the time.have been using blues blacks maroon and purple and the people i have showed think they look good and it does work on a guy and i am going to keep them painted all of the time when i dont have polish on they look boring and when they are painted they look good .
I'll never understand the belief that a man wearing nail polish = wimpy.
One, what are you saying about women, when we wear nail polish all the time?
Two, how does putting on a nail colour connote a physical weakness? Is it like kryptonite?
Like all things, I think it depends on the person and what colour the person is wearing, and how they carry it off. It's not for all and not all should try it (nor would they want to) but it seems a bit silly to me to have a problem with a guy wearing nail polish if he liked wearing it. How is it hurting anyone? In fact, he'd probably have to put up with a lot of flack from other guys so more power to him.
I think it takes a certain type of guy to wear nail polish. On my boyfriend, it'd just look ridiculous (and he would kill me for putting it on him, because he wouldn't ever do it himself), but I can think of a few guys that could totally rock it.
I am all for men getting manicures and pedicures!
I know they sometimes are hard on their hands, so a manicure can go a long way in helping to keep their hands in good condition.
As far as the pedicures go, most men do not really pay much attention to their feet. And when they wear sandals, and everyone can see their rough callouses and crusty, yellowed nails, it's just gross in my opinion. Pedicures should be required by their g/f or wives!
And I can't explain it, but I really like the look of a guy with deeply-colored polished toenails. It just finishes off their strong, manly image in my opinion.
I have seen this in magazines, and I saw a guy with deep blue toenails in Las Vegas last summer, and it looked totally great on his tanned feet!
I have discovered that there are more men trying this look than you would expect, but you don't notice it until you start looking for it.
I am going to tell more of my male friends about this blog and encorage them to try it. I think it's about time guys show a little 'color'!
I love dark polish on a guy. Dave Navarro could wear red for all I care, he'd still be HOT! I remember back in the early/mid
90's when Hard Candy first came out and they had a line specifically for men. Dark shades and even slightly different packaging. If I remember correctly Antonio Bandaras wore it.
Now polish on boy toes? Not sure, I hate feet to begin with but the polish would hide the narnar toes. On the fence there, but on the right hands, me likey some black polish.
I also remember back in the Glam Rock days when guys wore polish. What can I say, I love a pretty boy LOL
What with the possibility of painting nails to match their favorite team's colors, I wonder why men don't do it more often.
I feel that if a man is comfortable with wearing polish, whether on fingers and/or toes then who gives a crack of what others think. I wear polish on both and I am not gay. I am partial to dark colors, even shades of purple, red, brown/plum, blues, green, etc. My friends, family and wife thought I was becoming a picther & catcher but then saw that I do take care of my hands and feet more than I have done in the past, and must say that they look better than some of the ladies/women that I have met. I would actually like to meet others with the same interest that do not blame their nail painting on booze or kicks! I wera it 24/7.
I love independant men who have enough self-confidence that they do not need to give in to what others think they should do.
The man I am currently dating gets regular manicures and pedicures and his hands and feet look terrific! He has tried colored polish before and it totally rocks on him! He wore a charcoal/silver shimmer on his fingers at party last New Years Eve and I thought I was going to have to take him home early because the other women there were going crazy on him over his boldness!
He's worn silver, charcoal and deep blue on his toenails before, and so far, I like the blue the best.
Men should not be afraid to try this, unless maybe they are not 'man' enough!
I love men who wear nail polish, and I am not just talking about the celebrity guys you see on the web and in magazines.
Living in California, I see more men wearing their nails (mostly toes) polished and I think it looks soooo sexy and hot!
I don't think it's for women only, why should it be?
sent from: fav.or.it
I am really glad to see a lot of women approve of guys waring nail polish! I am a guy who likes to look after my nails and I love nail polish. My wife is cool with it as long as the clos aren't too girlie. I tend to ware pale or natural cols mostly. I wish it was more fashionable for guys to do this so that I can ware it all the time...
At least most of the women here that say men shouldn't wear it see it as a sexist comment. When you get down to it, it's nothing but paint! Personal preference that you don't like it? Cool. Saying men shouldn't do it? Sounds like a "women shouldn't wear pants" argument to me!
I am a heterosexual married male that has worn nail polish for the last 15-20 years. Most of that time it was in private, but now I wear color on my toes 24/7 and have acrylic fingernails. Why not wear color? What is SO bad about painting your nails? It hurts no one and is an extension of your personality. Do whatever makes you happy and don't waste your energy worrying what everyone else thinks. Step outside the norm, and break the very old societal rules. Women were so up in arms that society told them not to wear pants, and look at them now telling men that they cannot wear nail polish or anything else that society deems as to be feminine.
I will say, as a seventeen year old straight male, that I find myself enjoying painting my finger nails. Of course, I choose black or (sometimes) white, and yeah, I guess I'd fit into a rocker stereotype, since I do play guitar and have long hair.
The way I see it, is, its different. It makes my hands stand out, it contrasts my skin color and adds to my look, so why would I not do it. Sure, it may not be "manly", but I more than make up for that with the music I play. Hell, I where eyeliner too. I think makeup can work as an extension of your personality.
If you're a guy and want to wear makeup, thats all you. I personally love it, and so does my girlfriend.
Manicure for men I think is ok. Just as long as there are no polish involved. What's wrong with a guy who's got clear shiny and short nails just like any men have? Sure there's nothing wrong with this. It even looks very neat looking compared to a man's nails that are not manicured. This is why men should have their own ped/manicure salon too.
I'm a 14yr old boy and i too wear nail polish.. i don't show it to many people but i have been doing it for a very long time now(about 5 years) and i'm very good at painting my toe nails:) I absolutely love it! Yet i'm not the least amount of gay!! That is my greatest fear in life...(gay poeple) but i don't hate them or anything, like that one person said above about you only live once. I have had my nails painted so many different colors, such as blue, black, pink, red, orange, clear, all sorts of sparkles and what not, neon green/yellow, brown, purple, grey, white, and gold... I love it!!!!!!!:) and i'm not too afraid to wear it in public anymore.. Sometimes i have worn my toenails painted clear, yellow, green, and other not too noticable colors to the swimming pool. When i'm at friends houses i wear my nail polish proudly, as i do at my house:) i also have a foot fetish.. I will wear any color on my finger nails anywhere. The reason being is that i can put my hands in my pocket:) but at the mall and other places i just don't care, it's really fun if you get into it
I am a 48 yr. old, straight male who enjoys wearing nail polish. I am curious where it is said that only women can paint their nails? The stereotypical world has put certain things in our head during the aging process that makes people acquiesce to certain domains ... thus, we get discrimination at many levels. Myself ... I tend to think outside the box and to hell with what the world thinks! I wear orange, blue, purple, pink, green ... etc, etc. Society is so damn closed minded on so many subjects that it takes people like me, and others, to affect change.
I, too, am 48 yrs. old and cowboy'd all my life. I grew up on a 500 acre ranch, herded cattle, broke horses, mended fences and became a licensed, professional a/c, heating, electrician and plumber. At 47 yrs. old I was declared legally blind and couldn't work. Out of shear boredom I began painting my nails, fingers and toes, and realized I like the way they look. So WHY is it only for women? It appears that the world thrives on closed-minded degenerates and their lackadaisical opinions!
I must say that I am rather impressed at some of the comments made here, especially by other men. There is some wisdom in them I believe. I must confess to you all that I am a 35 year old married male who has been from one extreme to the next in my life and my wife has stuck with me through a lot of it. To make a long story short, I found a huge interest in women's pantyhose at age 10 which led to full blown crossdressing by 18-20. I brought it with me when I was married, thankfully my wife stuck with me. After heavy struggle, I came to the realization that I had no desire to be or look or mimick a woman. I only wanted my right to wear things that are normally associated with their gender now. I found that I do not have to dress as a woman to get my right to wear those articles of clothing back. If anyone wants to hear more you can email me at abburke51@yahoo.com. Anyway, men used to wear skirts or robes and actually it is healthier for them in their groin department as it helps the temperature for maximum fertility. Men used to wear hosiery, paint their nails, makeup, heels and lace, etc. as posted here. Someone asked, what makes people think only certain things are reserved for either sex. Most of it is the pressure of society and not sound authority. I became a real question a few years ago which makes God and His Word the ultimate authority in my life (which for those of you who say you don't believe, God is still your final authority, you just do not realize it) so I am subject to Him. What does God say of these things? The only thing I can find that is remotely relevant is Deuteronomy 22:5 and the talk of vanity in Ecclesiastes. I am trying to be short here so you can read that for yourself. I seriously do not see that God has a problem with it unless it becomes a priority higher than Him or what He commands you. Now, for those who choose not to believe, think of this logically. I know it is hard for Americans to think or read sometimes but bear with me. Nail polish really got popular again in the early 1900's. It is basically paint, just like you might paint the walls of your house with, only slightly modified. Ladies, is the surface of your nail really any different from a male? Males is yours? Can you not both apply this paint to one just as easily as the other? At what point does it become masculine or feminine? What is the difference between masculine and feminine? I am thinking reproductive organs and hormones mostly, which also controls the shape of the body.
As with all things, some items look better or worse depending on preference, shape, size, etc. There is no such thing as gender when it comes to color. I have seen some very "manly" guys wear pink shirts and it looks good. I personally still wear polish, especially on my feet and found that a french style with white tips and a nude shade over the nail bed seems to be the most flattering. I know I have received many compliments from women. I had one woman give me a sort of negative response and I believe it was simply because she was jealous that my feet looked better than hers which she told me. I love colored polish, especially black, browns and blues yet doesn't seem as flattering on my feet but like it on my finger nails. However I do not wear colors in public out of respect for my wife. People tend to be very social and only do what the herd allows, which I think is a tragedy. Someday she will learn this in time. From my experience, most women do not like it because of jealousy or it is not socially accepted. The rest do not like it simply because it is not their preference and that is fine.
One more thing and I will go. This is for all the men and the women who think that they should follow the typical male stereotype. Most men follow the stereotype that they should be manly and rugged, never groom themselves, dress like a slouch, interest themselves only in sports, hunting and drinking. While there is nothing wrong with sports, hunting or drinking if all in moderation, there are better things to occupy your time. While you are indulging in such things, you are missing the fact that you are probably neglecting your wife or girlfriend, your civic duties, and being robbed blind. I consider a real man as one who reads a lot to educate himself in important matters such as spirituality, government, world events, etc. Because you are not concerning yourself with important subjects, men who are and have found themselves in power are stealing from you, even your rights to wear nail polish if you like. Also, if you think women should have to dress up, wear makeup, etc to impress you then why shouldn't you do the same? I am sure women are tired of guys running around in old t-shirts with baggy pants or shorts and tennis shoes. If you have long hair then take care of it for God's sake. I once read that the last thing to go in a free and open society is the art. I think nail painting is also art and expression. We all know the world is getting bad and one can see a pattern even in fashion. Systematically in the past couple hundred years men and women have been taught that men have to be very 'manly' in that they have to dress and be rugged, not groom themselves or express themselves, stay tight lipped and even be violent. This is not healthy spiritually or physically for men. Such ways I believe are agitating men whether they admit it or not, causing more unrest and uncertainty. Do not be social but rather individual. Does not even nature teach you that males are very expressive, colorful and creative? I urge you to be real men, creative, inventive, thoughtful, read, study, learn, take care of your household and your body, be individual. It is OK to hunt or watch sports. It is OK not to as well.
I am sorry for the long post but so much more could be said. If you want to paint your nails then just do it.
I know I commented once already, but I've been fascinated and thrilled with the discourse that has taken place in the comments on this post. And I can no longer hold this back:
"I would just like to say
that it is my conviction
that longer hair and other flamboyant
affectations of appearance are nothing more
than the male's emergence
from his drab camouflage
into the gaudy plumage
which is the birthright of his sex.
There is a peculiar notion that elegant plumage
and fine feathers are not proper for the male,
when actually
that it the way things are in most species."
Maybe the average man in the street could get away with a bit of clear polish but it also depends on the length of your nails and the environment to which you work in.
I'm a 15 year old black gay guy and I sometimes paint my nails clear I have tried black yet but I want to. I remember being at the dollar store once over the summer and a white guy in his late 30's early 40 came in he was wearing shorts and flip flops and his toe nails were painted like the American Flag. I like in Akron, Ohio btw
I'm a 35 old italian guy, married, straight and liberal...usually in summertime i love painting my toenails.
My fav color is black, but sometimes i wear blue, burgundy or brown...depending on the match with my clothes and my flip flops ;)
My wife is a very supportive girl and consider this a normal practice.
Somebody looking me like an alien or a gay, especially in Italy...but i don't understand why we need a trademark...
When i'm on holiday in Spain or Greece...i'm totally free..
I love my appearance and my body..and i think this is a sign of freedom...why not?
I'm 38, and have been wearing dark polish on and off for about 10 years now. Women seem to notice it and approve, and other guys just look at it strangely. Living in Chicago it's not too uncommon to see a heavy metal dude like me wearing it even though we look really, really roughneck sometimes.
The only time polish looks crummy on dudes is when they intentionally scratch some of it off. I think if you're going to bother with it at all, make it look decent.
My preferred colors are both OPI, 'Light My Sapphire" & "Midnight In Moscow", since they both look totally black, but are blue and red, respectively. Very cool stuff, but you probably already know that.
Men who have an open mind enough to wear nail polish on their toes are much more attractive and mature than those who are afraid to show a little style and creativity IMHO.
I love a guy wearing a pair of nice leather sandals and his toes polished with a nice deep color.
Why don't more men try this? Are they afraid of something, what a few closed-minded people might think? C'mon guys, we are living in a time where anyone can show their creative side and be expressive.
We all know how poorly most men's feet are cared for, so why not go get a pedicure and add a little color too?
I am all for it!!
With the increasing popularity of men wearing sandals lately, I have begun to notice the generally poor condition most guy's feet are in. Men should definitely take more care and pride in how their feet look if they are showing them openly!
It would not hurt for them to go get a pedicure and get those ugly nails trimmed and callouses smoothed down so they look at least acceptable.
As far as men wearing polish on their toes, I think it can work. I have never really liked black or other very dark colors on women's feet anyway. I think it makes our feet look heavy and less feminine.
A guy with polished toes might be a nice improvement!
I'm definitely a fan of men wearing their nails polished! I know a few guys who wear it from time to time and I think it's 'hot'! I especially like the look of a guy with his toenails polished a deep color, like black, dark blue or dark maroon. Oh yeah!!!
C-mon people, nail polish, or 'paint' is certainly not going to change a person's sexual orientation! If a guy is interested in having his nails painted, then he should have every right to do it. Maybe it's just an experiment for him to see how it feels/looks, or maybe he's just more creative/expressive than most guys. I think it's great that more men are breaking free of the 'grunge' look and taking steps to be more 'colorful'!
sent from: fav.or.it
I am part-owner in a nail salon located in the upper Midwest. My partner and I recently decided to attract male clientele because we see it as a very important part of our growing business. Men can certainly benefit from well cared-for nails, it helps improve their image and level of professionalism.
And yes, men can and do wear nail polish. Clear is more common on men's fingers, but we have had requests for pretty much any color by men on their feet. I don't know whether they wear is openly or just privately, but it is no longer a surprise or 'odd' that a man will have their toenails polished with color, usually a darker color in our experience.
For those who do not care for this, I would only say that the trend for men to remain the unkempt and grungy of the sexes is changing in small increments. Polished toes and sandals for men is becoming more common.
sent from: fav.or.it
I guess I had been intrigued by the look of nail polishes from way back. And I even experimented with it off and on like many others. But it wasn't until my wife suggested I try it that I really got hooked. She knew I liked it, so she thought what better way to see if it 'worked' for me than to give it a whirl.
So, I now wear my toes painted pretty much all of the time. I pretty much stick to colors that I consider to be more masculine looking, and so it works for me. My wife likes it and I receive positive comments from others too, so I don't really feel there is anything odd about it at all.
sent from: fav.or.it
Dig It! Cool article. I don't know why some people still freak out over a dude wearing nail polish. I've seen the rockers doing for going on 20 years now (like when the dudes in Motley Crue were doing it, like Tommy Lee and Nikkie Sixx) - and now, even the extreme sports people are into it - the ultimate fighter Chuck Liddell does it!
I've been wearing the stuff ever since I've been ten or so, and fully intend on doing so forever. I think it's very cool, and so does my fiance. It's really all about a freedom issue - I dig it - I don't care if anyone else does or not - I'll be damned if I'll let some snively-assed-critical-whiny people try to sway me - my self-confidence doesn't need any propping-up from anyone. I like it. If some don't - tough. Nail polish for dudes is here to stay!
posted by 'SlayerRocks'
Not such a big deal. I surpised my wife with a pedicure, scheduled during her lunchbreak a few days ago, just because I love her and wanted to do something nice. Anyway I'm at the spa setting up her appointment and while talking with the owners we (myself and them) talked me into a pedicure. A few years ago I picked up a wicked case of athletes foot from my martial arts class, and my feet have never been the same since. At the end of the pedicure I was offered clear or color. My response, "Ummm...." She says, "You'd look good with color." BAM "burgundy frost" toes. At the time I was wearing my sandals, I'm across town and had errands to run - I'm in public with painted toes.
The first person that I saw who noticed was the guy at Home Depot that was helping me get stuff to fix my sink. He looked down at the bottom shelf saw my toes, immediately looked back up at me, looked down again, looked back up, paused for a moment and then continued talking like nothing happened. I found that pretty amusing.
The next person was the mother of my daughters best friend. I was picking up my daughter from school and of course best friends come out together. While the kids were exchanging pleasantries, mom and I were as well. Of course we have to look down at the kids, and I saw her notice. There was this pause then she says, "Who painted your toes?" I tell her the story, and she gripes the only way she got her boyfriend to go with her for a pedicure was to pay for both of them, and he wouldn't even get clear polish.
Anyway, after the pedicure, I went to my wife's job (to tell her what she was doing for lunch - pedicure), Wal-Mart, Home Depot, the post office, tax preparers office (to pick up paper copies of our taxes), dry cleaners, daughter's school and a gas station (which I had to enter, because the credit card reader on the pumps didn't work).
All in all, it was a rather exhilarating day - the pedicure rocked, the guy at Home Depot was entertaining, daughter's BFF mom was supportive, and who ever else noticed didn't say anything (no pointing, gawking, laughter or fashion police raid), my wife and I LOVE the way my feet look and feel.
Women have kept this secret long enough, I'm a prison guard (on my feet all day) a monthly pedicure is now a must for me, color will definitely be an option.
Just wanted to share and encourage. Guys; it's your life, your body - tattoo, piercing (pretty much permanent), toe color (change at will).
My BF just tried this for the first time - and it looks great! He and I never talked about it before, so I am not sure what moved him to do it, but he just said he thought it might look 'cool'. He got them done with a gray-silver color and it totally looks just right on him.
This really works for guys!
My BF just tried this for the first time - and it looks great! He and I never talked about it before, so I am not sure what moved him to do it, but he just said he thought it might look 'cool'. He got them done with a gray-silver color and it totally looks just right on him.
This really works for guys!
Wow is all I can say that this topic just seems to go on and on. I have been painting my nails for years and yes I use every color in the rainbow. For the last three years I have been going to a manicurist and have given her free reign on both my fingernails and toenails. I have had acrylic fingernails now for the three years and I do wear them rather long. I only have a clear gel coat on them but every once in a while she paints them in different colors. My toes on the other hand have been painted for the full three years now and she makes sure they are very well decorated. I have gone to wearing toe rings with them and an anklette. Feminine yes but I love the look. I am married and straight but I love the look.
I really don't see, why guys can't have their toes painted. I like to have my feet pampered sometimes. We enjoy it together with my wife, any colors go. It's pure fun. Unfortunately, i still don't have the guts to show it in open.
So, mates, don't even hesitate, if you ever consider to paint your toenails.
right now i'm wearing vanilla bean color on my toes, it looks a lot better than nothing and i have sexy feet for a guy.
sent from: fav.or.it
I'm 42 and I've been getting a pedicure with polish every two weeks for about 4 years now.
The first time I did it, it was with a (female) friend who bought me a pedicure/facial/massage package at the local spa. The nail tech and I had a really great conversation and talked briefly about nail polish on men. At the end, blushing, I asked if she could put polish on my nails and she gave me a coat of super-sheer pink.
Since then, I've gone back to the same woman and gotten much more adventurous with my color selections. I'm heterosexual, but I have kind of a strong feminine side and getting pedicures feeds that. As a result, I tend to get fairly girly colors. I think it was at least a year before I got anything but sheer pinks. My selection is broader now.
I really like the experience of getting a pedicure almost as much as I like wearing the nail polish. My nail woman (the same one) is really a good conversationalist and she teases me about my girly nails, which is great :) It also just feels good! In addition, I've always had problems with my feet.. toenails growing in weird directions, all kinds of crazy stuff.. and I haven't had a single issue since I started getting pedicures, so there's actually a significant comfort/medical benefit for me.
I've dated a few women since I started getting pedicures and the reactions have been neutral, to "that's kind of cute", to my current girlfriend's view - she looooovvves it.
I have gone out in public showing my nails, but only rarely, and then just with really sheer pinks which you wouldn't expect to get noticed generally. I kind of doubt I'd ever get to that level of comfort, especially since I have no interest at all in "masculine" colors like silvers or blacks - that's just not what makes it fun for me. I work in a very manly-man environment, and have very manly-man friends. I doubt many of them would find bright pink toenails to be all that cool.
But I'd recommend trying it once to any guy, just for the humor factor if nothing else. Remember, life is about collecting as many diverse experiences as you can so you have something to think about when you're 95, wetting your pants, and drinking carrot juice through a straw.
I have enjoyed coloring my toenails and have worn anything from pink to red to charcoal gray. I'm not afraid to show it and have even gone to church with sandals on. Obviously no one there would dare make a peep. God is watching! Taking care of my feet has been a joy and color has only made it better. So much better that I've even created a blog about it to help encourage men to try it. It's only paint. It journeys through my first clumsy attempts to the different colors that I've tried. If it's allowed to post it here, check it out at http://9prettypiggies.blogspot.com.
Personally, i think it depends what kind of guy it's on. if it's on some big, old macho dude then no, especially if theyre old. but i'm only fifteen and quite skinny, and i paint my finger nails bright blue, green or black. i guesse i can get away with it because i'm young and what not, but from reading the other comments, i can see this whole "gender roles" manly stereotype thing is still there from the male counterpart, even though it's acceptable for a female to go around dressed like a boy ? well, i could argue about this all day, but i wont.
I am a straight male that wear nail polish on my toes all the time. used to be, i didn't let anyone see. Now I don't care. I never wear the "manly" or dark colors. Reds, pinks, berry and lighter purple is about it. When I am on the beach, I get a few looks. In town a few looks and yest no one has tried to be disrespectful to me. A few have looked at them with disgust and some may have wanted to say something, but hey, they didn't. The ladies seem to like it and the nail tech says she is thrilled that I get them done. She wishes it would catch on soon. Most nail people are not used to it but know that it is more popular in other parts of the country. Maybe someday, everywhere...kind of like the ear ring in the 80's.
I've honestly thought about this for years. During the fall there are a lot of holidays where a masquerade party can be a great excuse to get everything done, even if only for a weekend. But the rest of the year it's just the standard manicure & pedicure with no color on either fingers or toe, just a low-gloss clear polish.
Since my my right thumb splits from the tip back toward the nail bed, I'm about ready to go for gel to make it stronger. If it works I'll get gel on all of them.
As for the toes, at next pedicure I'll let the tech do them in a medium/dark blue. Actually, some of the OPI colors are VERY interesting.
And BTW, I'm just a regular guy with a techie engineering job.