The fashion world loves a “revolution,” and nothing is louder right now than the push for genderless clothing. Celebrities like EJ Johnson, with his vibrant, androgynous style, are constantly celebrated as breaking down barriers. But is this truly a movement for equality, or a calculated, billion-dollar marketing ploy designed to confuse consumers and squeeze more money out of an already saturated market?
The Confusing New Reality
For centuries, clothing was a clear marker of gender. Now, fashion labels from major houses to fast-fashion giants are aggressively pushing “gender-neutral” collections. Proponents argue this is a positive step toward equality and self-expression, allowing people to wear what they want without being confined to old-fashioned “male” or “female” boxes.
But critics argue this trend is causing more confusion than freedom.
- Eroding Identity: By making all clothing “genderless,” is the fashion industry actually diminishing the power of dressing to affirm one’s own identity, whether masculine or feminine? The push for oversized, shapeless silhouettes—a key “gender-fluid” trend—is seen by some as a regressive step that hides individuality rather than celebrating it .
- The Child Question: When retailers open “gender-free” children’s sections, or when a former Levi’s executive warns that gender-neutral clothing can be “really confusing to kids,” it raises a serious question: Are we prioritizing corporate profits and a trendy ideology over the clear, developmental need for children and adolescents to understand and express the world around them?
A Rich Kid’s Game?
Reality TV star EJ Johnson has built a career around his fabulous, self-described “feminine energy” and unapologetic style, becoming a champion of the LGBTQ+ community. But his message of bold expression, broadcast from a position of immense wealth and privilege (as the son of NBA legend Magic Johnson), highlights a massive disconnect.
- Luxury vs. Reality: For a celebrity like EJ, challenging gender norms through a wardrobe of high-end Chanel and Versace is easy—it’s a ticket to fame and red-carpet attention. For the everyday person, especially vulnerable young people, adopting a non-conforming style can invite judgment, bullying, or even danger.
- The Profit Motive: Fashion is a profit-driven industry. The surge in gender-neutral lines correlates directly with the rise of Gen Z consumers, who demand less pressure to conform to traditional ideals. Is the industry genuinely social justice-minded, or are they simply following the money? Many critics believe these “gender-inclusive” labels are nothing more than a calculated marketing ploy to secure a new, large market share.
While figures like EJ Johnson inspire many by unapologetically “living their truth,” the commercialization of gender identity raises a provocative question: Is this highly visible, celebrity-driven push for “genderless” style truly a social revolution, or just a clever business strategy that profits off a complex cultural moment?
The video below shares how the former reality star spoke out about gender identity and how he expresses himself. EXLCUSIVE: EJ Johnson Opens Up About Gender Identity
