Mark Bryan, a 61-year-old engineer from Germany, boldly challenges traditional gender norms. Interestingly, while high heels were originally designed for men in the 10th century to add height and style, they have since become almost exclusively linked to women. Today, Mark is one of many modern men reclaiming this classic footwear, proving it isn’t just for those born female.
As a father of three and a robotics engineer, Mark splits his time between work and family. At first glance, you might not expect him to have a massive social media following, but he’s recently stirred up the Internet with his daring outfits and striking images. His Instagram now boasts nearly 660,000 followers, thanks to posts featuring pumps, boots, and skirts. Alongside his eclectic wardrobe, Mark openly discusses how natural his clothing choices are, emphasizing that clothes should have no gender. He often chooses skirts over dresses to allow him to wear more traditionally “masculine” tops.
Mark believes that skirts offer more variety than the standard slacks or pants that most men wear to work. His family fully supports his efforts; he raised his children with the clear message that clothing doesn’t define sexuality or gender. His daughter, in particular, is one of his biggest fans, eagerly waiting for the day she can borrow some of his pieces, while his wife also stands by him and even helps him select outfits.
Not everyone is as understanding, though. Mark has encountered various negative comments both online and in person, and he frequently reminds others that they likely wouldn’t be making these remarks if he were dressed in traditional pants.