Dressing Authentically: Navigating Queer Identity in Professional Spaces

As the new school year approaches, I find myself reflecting on the power of clothing as a tool for expressing our true selves. The binary expectations embedded in formal work wear have long been a challenge, especially for those of us who identify outside the norm. How do we express our queerness while navigating the corporate or educational world?

I’ve always been frustrated by the gender-based clothing restrictions that persist. It’s perplexing that simple things like wearing shorts or a dress can be gender-coded. As an educator, I’ve often contemplated wearing a dress to stay cool in the summer months. It’s not about assigning blame but shedding light on the disparity in clothing expectations based solely on birth-assigned genders. As a consultant, in some respects this a something that is easier to explore as I’m not bound to the staff policies which often contain a dress code.

As we approach the new school year, I’ve had time to explore my wardrobe (yes, I can’t help a good refresh every September!). While it might feel like a bold move, I’m embracing my queerness. I will be wearing heels to work (nothing too high - my ankles couldn’t take it), I will paint my nails and wear make up.

However, there’s an undeniable concern about the reactions this may elicit. Will there be looks or comments? It’s almost inevitable. The thought of defending my choices and feeling under scrutiny is unsettling. As someone who’s always encouraged asking to understand, I’m wary of the potential micro-aggressions and triggered traumas these inquiries might bring.

I am simply a cisgender gay man exploring his queer identity.

I know there will be challenging times ahead, just by altering my work wardrobe, but the world needs to be educated. We can all be who we want to be and explore our identity how we want - and this must happen without fear or judgement.

No longer should any of us have to shy away from our authentic selves at work.