New York Magazine has introduced its first men’s style issue and chose to feature Elliot Page, a transgender actor who is biologically female. The issue includes an article titled “The Men’s Style Issue,” highlighting the magazine’s past coverage of men’s fashion.
The magazine recounted its history with men’s style. In 1971, it explored whether men would adopt high heels for fall. A 1996 article profiled male supermodels with the headline, “They’re hot, they’re rich, they’re openly straight.” From 2006, parts of the women’s fashion issue included a segment on men’s fashion, showcasing emerging designers and styles of the early 2000s.
Currently, the magazine recognized significant trends like teenage enthusiasm for Ralph Lauren, changes at Armani, and the high resale value of certain jeans, such as worn Chrome Hearts being sold for $100,000. They felt it was the right time to focus on men’s style, featuring influential figures and longtime ‘semi-supermodels.’ Although they abstained from predicting major shifts in men’s fashion, they speculated that sarongs might become popular for men in urban areas.
The issue presents multiple covers, including Page’s, and directs readers to an article called “The Boys in the Baths.” It describes stylish men at the East Village’s Russian & Turkish Baths. Page, partially undressed, shared thoughts about the bathhouse experience and masculinity. He discussed singing in the shower, often finding himself belting lyrics like Cher’s “Do you believe in life after love?” or songs from “The Sound of Music.” He noted he hasn’t seen the film but still sings its tunes.
Political commentator Link Lauren criticized the choice to feature a biological female in a men’s style context. He asserted that mainstream media lacks genuine masculinity and that the feature sought attention rather than showcasing style. Lauren argued that without Page’s transitioning, the actor might not be as newsworthy now.
Tim Graham, executive editor of NewsBusters, also critiqued the decision. He questioned the expertise of the magazine’s team for including Page in a men’s style feature. Graham remarked that this resembles previous instances where media praised transgender individuals in traditional categories, anticipating approval for progressive stances.