Dressin' in Drag

This photo features Jude Law as Minx in the movie Rage. (A movie wherein the entire plot is told through narratives in different perspectives... VERY interesting methodology. However, I didn't get to finish it before it was sent back to Netflix and may revisit it another day.)

If a guy were to look you in the eyes and say, "I wanna dress in drag." Would you honestly see a problem with that? Women have been living an androgynous freedom since the cry of "equal rights for women!!" ran like lightening through the nation. It was a hard fought battle and the victories have come a little at a time, but, what's so wrong with the other way around?

Currently, most of our cultural entertainment is pushed to adore and adorn the female body. Magazines, catalogs, self-help books, and even music (like John Mayer's "Your Body is a Wonderland") make goddesses of the entire female gender. Of course, this means that as women we may feel pressure to fit some model of perfection. But, if we don't, we're free to cut our hair ultra short, go without a bra or mascara, and smoke cigars like a cowboy all while being applauded by many as courageous, independent, and free spirited.

Now, I will admit, that Jude Law is sexy on the big screen. Those blue eyes of his (especially as a widower in The Holiday) could make a girl melt to the floor. But, as Minx, I am not attracted to him... In fact, I would be more than a little wierded out if he tried to kiss me. This is probably because I am not attracted to women and not, in any way a judgement about his character or respectability just because he looks better in black hair and lipstick than I do.

When I was younger, my sisters and I used to dress up our little brothers - the hair, the make up, the dresses (the works!!) Maybe we overdid it. Maybe we curbed the curiosity for all things floral, satin, shiny, or lipstick because neither of them feels inclined to dress in our culturally labeled "feminine" outfits. Although both like to be clean and one enjoys a regular manicure.

I think that pushing the boundaries of cultural norms is a great way to re-evaluate the purposes behind the rules and the stigmas that go with them. How many men would be better nurturers of children or run a more efficient household if given the opportunity? Of course, honesty and respect for others when doing so are necessary as well. So, put away the little white lies, don a pretty lipstick, and pout for the camera. Just be ready to accept your partner's denial of the usually hungered-for kiss.