I usually go too long between haircuts to the point where it looks ridiculous. I have sensitive skin so I'm forced to not shave every day which I hate, facial hair looks bad on me. I'm totally out of the loop when it comes to fashion and style (I've seen middle aged men dress more "up to date" than me.) When ever I try to update myself nothing I try on seems to work with my body or face. Where did the stereotype of gay/queer guys being so stylish and well dressed come from? I just can't seem to keep on top of things..
My best friend is a gay guy, and he's an absolute mess fashion wise. I try to emulate Kurt cobain, so I guess that makes me a mess fashion wise as well!
Gay men do not have to be more fashion conscientious than any other guy. As you said yourself, it's a stereotype. But there is no harm in exploring your own sense of fashion... For me, I find people who I think have a great sense of style and emulate them. You can go through the list... haircut and style, basic wardrobe, maybe some nice sweaters or jackets, a good pair or two of shoes. Maybe make a board of photos on Pinterest or a similar site, I find that's a good way to collect fashion tips and pictures. Also, it does not have to cost you a heap of money to look nice. I've been complimented a lot on the stuff I wear or how I have my hair - well, I buy 99% of my clothing from thrift stores, and cut and style my own hair. Working within what is reasonable and practical, it's really not that hard to have a solid sense of fashion. That doesn't mean you have to know all the designer brands or shop at malls. It just means knowing what you like, knowing what you look good in, and going for it. What is there to lose?
For sure. I like being considered attractive, but the fashion stereotype does not help. i think Kurt Cobain is cool. That's why I dress like him. Because I wanna be cool!!!
Most men that I have dated have not fit the gay stereotype. It really IS a stereotype nurtured by media. I feel like most gay men are not flamboyant, love shopping, wear bright "gay" colors, etc. Not that it's a bad thing to be those things, but it's definitely NOT everyone.
It's worth saying that some gay men actually are like that because of the stereotype and not vice versa.
While I would say it's a stereotype that gay men are all about fashion and appearances, that's definitely not true for every gay person. I think it really just depends on the person and their general interest in clothes and appearances. I personally enjoy wearing nice clothes and keeping basic maintenance like trimming my beard, etc., but I don't care for designer clothes or wearing bright colours. My gay best friend on the other hand loves shopping, wearing bright colours, and getting his eyebrows and hair done every two weeks. The same can be said about straight men too, some don't really care about fashion, others love to look preppy and put together. One of my straight buddy loves to wear custom tailored suits and shirts with bold colours.