Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
5-2015
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Department
Communication
Degree Program
Communication, MA
Committee Chair
Sohn, Steve H.
Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)
Walker, Kandi
Committee Member
Story, Kaila
Subject
Fashion--Periodicals; Gay men--Periodicals
Abstract
This thesis project is an exploratory content analysis that seeks to measure the ways in which gay male fashion magazine de-feminize their representations of feminine performing gay men. 125 images across five summer editions of Instinct Magazine, from 2010-2014, were randomly selected and were measured along the lines of race/ethnicity, fitness of clothing, build, touch, gaze, and body curvature. The research confirmed that gay male fashion magazines do in fact de-feminize their representations of femininity along these variables. The research also reflects pre-conceived ideas of representation along the boundaries of race. Using Michael Warners theory of Publics and Counterpublics as well as Judith Butler’s theory of performativity, this project seeks to illustrate the danger of de-feminizing these representations, and seeks to challenge the way in which gay male fashion magazines articulate stereotypes surrounding feminine performing gay men.
Recommended Citation
Vincent, Christopher J., "The de-feminization of femininity : exploratory content analysis of gay male fashion magazines." (2015). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2134.
https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/2134
