What defines the modern man? In today’s society, it is important for the modern man to be adaptable. The onus of men in society is at its all time peak. There is responsibility on men not only to be providers and protectors, but also to be lovers, spiritualists and the list precedes. Despite the ongoing attempts of recent generations to break away from fixated definitions of the man, the definition for “modern” is continuously changing.
As means within our society are developing at its fastest pace, being creatures of comfort we tend to allow technologies and other conveniences to lead the way. However this could potentially cause detrimental effects on our individual skill-sets and knowledge. Living in metropolitan cities with delivery and transportation at our fingertips is not an excuse for not being able to drive or even cook. Not having to do manual labour or haul strenuous weight on a regular basis equally does not justify skipping exercising for your own benefit. Therefore the modern man is prepared to adapt in any situation or setting.
A modern man is constantly learning. Acclimatising to new ways, skills, latest technologies and fashions. There is always room to improve and progress hence the modern man’s mind must be trained equally as much as his body. However this requires confidence and assurance in oneself. This is a process which comes with the realisation of accomplishments and strengths but most importantly setting goals and plans to achieve them. This doesn’t imply the modern man to indulge in materialism and express his wealth through societal hierarchies but reflect and understand himself on a deeper note. Regardless of resources and wealth, the modern man is compassionate and comprehends the complexity of others and his own emotions.
These characteristics may have been deemed feminine by previous generations but it unravels the equal oppression of men. Despite orthodox beliefs, men are just as exploited but these issues are discretely waged internally. Many men feel obliged to emphasise their masculine characteristics in order to conform to popularised notions. This consequently induces the discourse of modern masculinity. According to the Huffington Post’s campaign on Building Modern Men, throughout history, the male figure has been the epitome of stoicism, strength and bravery. Male heroes from childhood stories fixate the idea that the best kind of man is all of these things, and therefore dependable in the face of great adversity. Modern masculinity encompasses contemporary men and their refusal to comply with societal stereotypes and expectations of what defines a man. It embraces the discovery of oneself.
We spoke to Enes Topal, who is a notable advocate of Modern Masculinity. Enes is brand ambassador for Tom Ford Beauty in London and has recently promoted the topic on his fashion and lifestyle blog. Enes worked with celebrity Make-Up Artist Laura Rzemieniecka and Tom Ford Beauty to create a beauty tutorial which promotes genderless beauty and conventionalises the new perception of modern masculinity.
N: How has your experience in the beauty and fashion industry shaped your opinion of the modern man and its importance in today’s generation?
ET: We live in world in which appearance is all consuming. There was a time (past tense) when beauty was only considered important for women and deemed a feminine thing.
I strongly think that the immense impact that the technological world and most importantly social media has means everyone wants to look and feel good. We should all be able to present the best from of ourselves without judgement. This leads me to another tangent, I know currently there is not a variety beauty or cosmetic ranges and products for men but I think as our generation progresses change is definitely being made. Hopefully we will soon see heterosexual men freely being able to beautify themselves.
N: What is your perspective on modern masculinity and the importance of gentlemen’s beauty and grooming?
ET: Modern Masculinity encourages the idea, that we should be free from boundaries that have been shaped by society and followed by individuals over the years. Everyone should have, and is entitled to their unique perception of beauty, fashion and lifestyle. I can strongly say that the men’s grooming and beauty industry is certainly something that will rocket as the subject becomes normalised.
N: You have a distinct sense of style. What, in terms of fashion inspires you?
ET: The inspiration behind my style again plays upon shaping the idea of masculinity to be more unique. I believe our culture is still dictated by a dated idea of masculinity, so I try to break these boundaries by putting first my personality and comfort.
N: How would you describe your lifestyle? Do you have any mottos or expressions that you live by?
ET: I would say that my lifestyle, is about feeling youthful and always doing what your heart leads you to do and believe. Also believing that absolutely nothing is impossible to accomplish. I would consider myself a very spiritual person and feel that everyone and everything is connected in various ways and means. So this is something I like to live by and alter my living according to this mentality, which helps me to appreciate little things and gestures.
