Comedian and provocateur Jordan Firstman has ignited backlash after making a bold and controversial claim about fashion in the LGBTQ+ community. Known for pushing boundaries in both his work and public commentary—from the risqué, skin-heavy film Rotting in the Sun to his debut single titled “I Wanna See My Friends D*cks”—Firstman thrives on shock value. But his latest statement has many calling foul, particularly among those who uphold the long-standing image of gay men as fashion icons.
In a recent appearance on Kareem Rahma’s YouTube series Subway Takes, Firstman delivered a statement that stunned viewers: “Gay men dress worse than straight guys.” Speaking against the backdrop of a moving subway car, Firstman argued that gay fashion had become overly performative. “The gays do a little too much,” he said, prompting Rahma—who wore a beige-on-beige ensemble with sunglasses—to agree, adding, “Most of the time, my gay kings are not slaying.”
The comment directly challenges a deeply ingrained stereotype: that gay men are inherently more stylish, more fashion-conscious, and often seen as the tastemakers of society. From legendary designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen to drag artists and fashion influencers, queer men have played a monumental role in shaping global fashion trends. Shows like Queer Eye and Sex and the City have only amplified that narrative, often portraying gay men as the ultimate judges of what to wear and what to toss.
Firstman acknowledged that history, saying, “In the ’90s, I feel like the media was kind of telling us gay men are the arbiters of taste, of fashion. We were watching Sex and the City and were like, ‘Honey, don’t wear that!’ We just got in our brains that gay men know fashion better.” Still, he believes the pendulum has swung too far, with current styles veering into what he views as costume rather than clothing. Comparing a typical straight bar to a gay one, Firstman criticized what he sees as over-the-top choices in gay spaces. “Even the worst of the straight guys are gonna be in an ill-fitting jean and a flannel shirt—which is not offensive. A gay bar? I’m like, ‘Why are you wearing a crop top that says “I love Björk and bottoming,” shiny spandex shorts, and Doc Martens?’ The risk-taking has gone too far.”
The internet’s reaction was swift and pointed. Queer users across platforms fired back, noting that gay men have long been the stylists, designers, and creative minds behind much of what is worn by people of all sexual orientations. Many criticized Firstman for generalizing based on a narrow segment of the gay community—typically cisgender, white men living in urban enclaves like West Hollywood or New York’s Hell’s Kitchen—while ignoring the rich diversity of queer fashion that spans ballroom culture, gender nonconformity, and non-Western influences.
While critics took issue with his sweeping statement, others emphasized that queer fashion has never been about blending in. It has always embraced elements like camp, theatricality, boldness, and irony—tools of self-expression and survival that challenge traditional norms. In that context, an outfit some might label “too much” is often a deliberate, empowering choice. Whether it’s a leather harness at the grocery store or a mesh top at brunch, queer fashion thrives on individuality and defiance of conventional taste.
Ironically, Firstman’s own fashion choices seem to undermine his argument. His Instagram feed showcases daring, eclectic outfits that seem to revel in the very exuberance he critiques. From flowing silhouettes to quirky accessories, his personal style leans into the playful spirit that defines much of queer fashion.
Whether his comments were meant as serious critique or a calculated attempt to provoke discussion, Firstman has certainly succeeded in grabbing attention. Yet in a world where fashion serves as both armor and art for many LGBTQ+ individuals, declaring gay men “worse” dressed than their straight counterparts risks not only simplifying a complex cultural tradition, but also underestimating the power of self-expression. For those bold enough to wear a crop top celebrating Björk and bottoming, style may just be another form of visibility—and that, in itself, is worth celebrating.
Related Topics
- WashU Professors Urge Rethinking of Fast-Fashion During Sustainable Fashion Week
- Victoria’s Secret Launches Summer 2025 Campaign with Iconic Beachwear Vibes
- Chinese Designers Captivate Paris Fashion Week with Culture-Infused Couture
