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Resisting and conforming to the 'Lesbian Look': The importance of appearance norms for lesbian and bisexual women

Huxley, Caroline; Clarke, Victoria; Halliwell, Emma

Authors

Caroline Huxley

Profile image of Victoria Clarke

Dr Victoria Clarke Victoria.Clarke@uwe.ac.uk
Associate Professor in Qualitative & Critical Psychology

Emma Halliwell Emma.Halliwell@uwe.ac.uk
Associate Professor in Psychology



Abstract

Appearance is one way in which lesbian and bisexual identities and affiliation to lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB) subculture can be demonstrated. 'Butch' and 'androgynous' styles have been used by lesbian women to communicate a non-heterosexual identity. However, some LGB appearance researchers have argued that there has been a mainstreaming and diversification of lesbian style in the last couple of decades, which has resulted in less distinction between lesbian and straight looks. This research draws on the Social Identity approach to explore contemporary style in lesbian and bisexual communities. Fifteen lesbian and bisexual women took part in semi-structured interviews which were analysed using thematic analysis. Although some participants reported a diversification of lesbian style, most used the term 'butch' to describe lesbian style, and a 'boyish' look was viewed as the most common contemporary lesbian style. By contrast, most participants could not identify distinct bisexual appearance norms. The data provide evidence of conflicting desires (and expectations) to visibly project social identity by conforming to specific lesbian styles, and to be an authentic, unique individual by resisting these subcultural styles. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Jan 1, 2014
Journal Journal of Community and Applied Social Psychology
Print ISSN 1052-9284
Electronic ISSN 1099-1298
Publisher Wiley
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 24
Issue 3
Pages 205-219
DOI https://doi.org/10.1002/casp.2161
Keywords lesbian dress and appearance, social identity, lesbian, bisexual, LGB communities, thematic analysis, body image
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/929711
Additional Information Additional Information : online version published before inclusion in an issue