The world has always been full of stereotypes. Some are centuries old, others are newly formed, yet they all work the same way — they attempt to box us in, to tell us who we are before we even open our mouths. From gender and race to class, nationality, and religion, stereotypes quietly shape how society sees us.
One of the most persistent stereotypes, especially for men, is the idea that paying attention to how you look is frivolous. The unspoken rule has been that fashion is a woman’s playground while a man should be too busy, too serious, or too practical to care about his appearance.
But here is the truth: how we present ourselves is not vanity, it is identity.
As someone deeply invested in men’s fashion, I have seen firsthand how style shapes perception. A man in a suit and tie is quickly labeled corporate. A guy in sneakers, jeans, and a polo might be read as an entertainer or creative. Someone draped in Agbada? Instantly, you think Africa. Clothes speak. Before a word is spoken, your appearance tells a story about where you are from, what you value, and even how you see yourself.
And yet, the stereotype lingers that a fashionable man is less of a man. I believe the opposite. It takes confidence, self awareness, and discipline to show up well. Looking good is not about vanity, it is about respect for yourself and for those you encounter. World leaders, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons understand this. They invest in their image because they know appearance is often the first door to influence.
This is not about having an endless wardrobe or chasing luxury labels. True style is about making the most of what you have, curating pieces that reflect your essence, and wearing them with confidence. I often challenge myself not to repeat the same look in the same way, not because I have unlimited clothes, but because creativity turns a single piece into multiple expressions.
Here is the part many men do not realize: not playing the game of dressing well is like shooting yourself in the leg. It is like showing up to a masquerade ball barefaced while everyone else is in a mask. You may think you are being authentic, but what you are really doing is making yourself invisible in a world that reads appearances before personalities.
When we ignore how we look, we unconsciously communicate neglect, that we do not value ourselves enough to present well. But when we take pride in our style, we elevate our confidence, our presence, and our ability to connect with others. Looking good boosts self esteem, makes us more approachable, and often creates opportunities we did not see coming.
So, the mindset that “a man no suppose dey fine” must be retired. It is not about being vain. It is about being intentional.
Fashion is more than fabric, it is a mirror of identity. Every man, no matter his background, has a unique story. And the way we choose to carry ourselves, through style, through manner, through presence, tells the world exactly who we are before we say a word.
Because at the end of the day, style is not about being noticed. It is about being remembered.
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