Relevant

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I recently read a post on the Art of Man blog referencing the decline of readership of men’s fashion and lifestyle magazines. Offered as an example of this trend was the decision by Vogue to discontinue its men’s edition. Now, I don’t want to completely dismiss this trend; however, I would like to suggest a reason for the argued declining readership.

A sample review of the most notable men’s magazines leaves you somewhat perplexed as to whom the publishers are targeting. First, none of my acquaintances can afford to spend the ridiculous sums of money for clothing that these magazines are advertising. Even if they could, their intelligence would intervene before their credit cards saw the light of day. I mean, seriously; $1,000 plus shoes, suits that are worth more than my used car and miscellaneous accouterments, the cost of which exceed my annual clothing allowance. I frequently find myself mumbling WTF when I check the prices below the pictures. If the issue of cost was not enough, in many cases the styles are simply inappropriate for normal men in the workplace, or in social settings. Unless you’re stupid enough to wear skinny jeans to work, or brave enough to risk the wrath of your friends, the styles being highlighted in many men’s magazines are simply too flamboyant or comical for any man with a modicum of self-respect.

This brings me to written content. Now, maybe I should have interest in how to make a women have multiple orgasms, what gym workouts can make me look like Russell Crowe in Gladiator, or experience the ultimate vacation, but to be honest, I just don’t give a crap. Sure I’d like to be “good” in bed, not feel self-conscious when I take my shirt off at the beach, or be capable of spending my kids first-year’s college tuition for an experience of a lifetime; however, the unreasonable expectations set by the editors only guarantee that most of us will walk away in defeat, confiding feelings of worthlessness to our local bartender as we order another stiff one. Now I know how women feel.

So magazine editors, I have a recommendation. Why don’t you try a little dose of reality and write for normal men. What I mean by normal men are gents that still want to be stylish, desire to be physically in shape and are looking for quality content that educates and inspires, not a bunch of bullshit that plays to overinflated egos and illusions of grandeur of the 20-30 age cohort. And seriously, write and advertise for the normal budget. The fact is, you’re just not relevant and that’s why your readership is plummeting. Your vision is just plain stupid and we men know it.

#Fashion #Lifestyle