Has it always been like this?
Our idea of 'what looks good' changes over time and across the globe. Let's talk about the body types that were in fashion over the years.
Scroll up and down to the right to see the timeline.
5000 BC
Caveman
Slender fast bodies could escape sabre-tooth tigers, but heavier bodies could survive cold winters!
1000 BC
Greek Stud
A time of great artistic and scientific discovery. Chiseled marble statues represent perfection, and perfect proportions.
1750
Macaroni
Men’s fashion went wild and slender bodies were in! Lace cuffs, knee-length breeches, ruffles, frills, make up, high heels, and big wigs
1870
Large Man
A wider waist and bigger belly meant you were wealthy. A ‘Fat man club’ opens in America.
1900
Strong Man
Most men were very lean. ‘Strong men’ were entertainers who toured with ‘freak shows’. They would wow crowds with feats of strength.
1930
Hollywood Glam
Hollywood old-school glamour was in and slender actors were favoured because the camera reportedly adds 10 kilos.
1960
Hippy
John Lennon, Mick Jagger…the time of skinny music hippies with long hair.
1980
Beefcake
Return of the beef cake: Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone are centre-stage.
2000
Everything Man
The internet pressures men to have everything. Muscly, but not too muscly, stylish, tall, tan with impeccable hair. But don’t look like you’re not trying too hard. Exhausted yet?
