Putting the Man in “Man”icure

Abstract

This study focuses on violations of gender boundaries in the beauty industry and how males react to them. My investigation looks into men's genuine views about going to a nail salon and indulging in feminine activities like having a manicure and pedicure, as well as how this links to their sense of masculinity. Given the variety of masculinity constructs, viewpoints from Hispanic/Latino and Caucasian/White males will reveal nuanced cross-cultural constructions and meanings of masculinity, as well as their feelings about getting their nails done in a nail salon. This study will also be conducted at SUNY Purchase College to understand more about how male college students perceive stereotypically feminine behavior. I claim that there will be more males at Purchase College who will accept men getting manicures and pedicures at nail salons. However, because of their cultural upbringing and desire to keep their manhood, I believe Hispanic male students will object to the thought of guys getting their nails done more than White male students. Nonetheless, I believe that White male students will continue to utilize reasons such as metrosexuality, their job, or social standing as justifications for participating in feminine conduct.