Femmes

Proud embracers of feminimity

Gay Femmes proudly embrace aspects of female appearance and behaviour. Sadly, this means they’re often ridiculed by other gay men who demand ‘masc-only’ men and ‘no camps’. But they remain undeterred. And in making bold statements about their identity and desires, they have legions of admirers.

 The image of the effeminate gay man has long been demonised. Both by straight society and within the gay community. Indeed, the advent of hyper-masculine clone culture in the 1970s was a backlash against Gay Femmes. However, in recent times, Gay Femmes have had a resurgence. Shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race celebrate the blurring of gender, as do fashion designers. Yes, Gay Femmes are moving into the mainstream. To answer the question of what is a femme we need to think about looks as well as behaviour. Gay Femmes don’t fit stereotypical perceptions of masculinity. They refuse to hide mannerisms that people may consider camp. Moreover, their clothes will include colours and styles often more associated with women. These choices can be seen as a political statement.

Transgender refers to an individual’s gender identity. Firstly, it’s distinct from sexual orientation. And secondly, Trans is an umbrella term. It’s used by anyone whose internal experience of gender doesn’t match the sex that they are given when they’re born. There are many dangerous misconceptions about what it means to be Trans. These are the foundation of prejudice. Similar misunderstandings surround Gay Femmes. Gay Femmes are not necessarily Trans people. For example, a Gay Femme can be a cisgender male. But he may simply enjoy adopting the mannerisms or looks of a female. The key is always checking with an individual to find out which words they wish to use to describe themselves. Start by chatting to Gay Femmes of Gays.com.

Anything and everything! Like everyone, they choose to wear different clothes for different occasions. And those clothes reflect their personality. So you won’t necessarily find them dressing in skirts and blouses. They may like to mix it up and defy expectations. What's better than a pair of killer heels with an otherwise typically masculine pair of jeans? Or perhaps a splattering of exquisite lace? Importantly, they may decided to dress differently depending on whether they're in a private or public space. But whatever they opt for, their focus is on dismantling redundant notions about what a man or a woman should look like. And not before time.