Dandys – czyli mężczyzna metroseksualny w XIX wieku

Abstract

The cult of beauty and elegance among men is nothing new. Metrosexual is commonly associated with modern times. The trend of metrosexual man is very often presented as a feature of XXI century society. However taking into account the history of fashion and its habits, it can be quickly concluded that such a way of thinking is wrong. Dandys is an example of a metrosexual man, who lived in the XXI century. This is an extraordinary character. The term in itself not only describes the appearance of a man, but also the way of his being and living. The elegant gentleman has become an icon and symbol of man’s fashion in XIX century. Dandyism was a philosophy of life, which was among others represented by Juliusz Słowacki. His sophisticated elegant style, high personal culture and attention to the smallest detail of the outfit are just few features of this kind of man. The image of dandys usually evoked and still evoke controversies. Some percieve him as a narcist hedonist, however others seek for his high intelectual level and sensitivity to the art. After strict analysis of this case, it can be stated that as in most of the cases, both sides possess their own rations and strong arguments.