Men In Pink
Men love pink- it's official- in fact it's their new favourite colour according to a recent survey.
Blame it on those adverts that claim male wrinkles aren’t a sign of rugged good looks, or even on THAT picture of David Beckham. Either way, there is no denying that we live in a world where a moob reduction is becoming as normal as a boob job and a man in make-up is more common than Russell Brand. Indeed, only a few weeks back we saw EastEnders hard man, Max Branning, swan into the Walford salon to treat himself to a pedicure!
So perhaps it comes as no surprise to learn about the latest female trend to sneak its way into the macho male psyche – pink. For decades men have been happy enough to pull on the pink for fancy dress, but wouldn’t dream of being seen down the pub in the feminine shade. But as male beauty products become a multi-million pound industry, it would seem that pink isn’t just a celebrity fad draped around a footballers neck[2] or sparkling on Prince Harry’s fingertips[3]. Pink is rapidly becoming a ‘real man’s’ colour, and if you don’t believe it, just check your man’s pants’ drawer!
A recent survey conducted by local pub group Ember Inns in association with Against Breast Cancer, reveals that more than half of men in the UK would be happy to wear pink, with pink pants being the third most popular pink purchase below a top and tie. The findings also showed that Cardiff tops the pink league table as the pinkest city with 67 percent of men there saying that they either already own, or would consider buying pink.
It also seems that women are just as keen for their men to embrace pink too. 63 percent of women across the UK say they would like their partner or future partner to own a pink shirt and nearly 40 percent of women aged 16-24 would like their men to own a pair of pink pants. But, if the idea of pulling on the pink still makes you nervous, rest assured that more than half of respondents think that a man wearing pink is confident, trendy and fashion conscious.
Gloria Thomas-Smith, Professional Psychotherapist explains: “As the Ember research found, the 'pink' epidemic amongst men has arisen in response to the increasing social acceptability that it is 'okay' for chaps to wear pink.
“This mindset has been created by key influencers, whether they be celebrities or sporting heroes, who have helped to change the belief that pink is a solely feminine colour to positive associations with confidence, acceptance and creativity.”
So with pink officially the colour of male confidence and style, and with more than half the nation’s men happy to wear the rosier shade, Ember Inns has decided to put the statistics to the test in its annual Drink Pink campaign. Up until the 14 June in more than 180 pubs across the country, the pub group is challenging men from all walks of life to head down to their local pub to Drink Pink for national charity Against Breast Cancer.
Oliver Devine, senior marketing manager at Ember Inns, comments: “Over the years, pink has moved away from the powder room to be seen as a socially acceptable colour for both sexes. This year we want to encourage all men to embrace their pink side by joining our Drink Pink campaign to help raise a record amount of money for Against Breast Cancer.
“There are many different ways to get involved, from simply having a pink drink to taking part in our many sponsored pink events and pink parties. It’d be great to see men from across the UK step up to the mark and do their bit for this fantastic cause. I’m sure they won’t let us down.”
In addition to the traditional glass of rosé that helped raise over £75,000 during previous campaigns, the group has launched a brand new series of pink drinks which will leave no excuse for every man not to dabble in a pink tipple for charity. Unashamedly sip a Tickled Pink cocktail in a pink cashmere jumper, or keep your hand safely around a regular looking pint of Lily the Pink ale and a bottle of Jacques pink cider, as 5p from each drink goes towards the cause.
If the statistics are anything to go by, you should probably think about trialling that pink shirt too, if you don’t have one already. Who knew that wearing pink was enough give you confidence, make you stylish and keep you in the Mrs’s good books? If anyone asks, you can always say it’s for charity.
Tagged in fashion