I remember being teased on the street for my walk by other boys when I was nine years old with my parents in New York City. When I came back to the States as an adult I was amazed at just how feminine my walk and mannerisms were compared to most American men, although they had seemed quite normal during my teenage years in Europe. So I do wonder how much of this is cultural rather than gendered. I do understand that American men don't cross their legs because they have to constantly present with enormous genitals lest anyone mistake them for women but isn't this just a bit silly? I found this hyper masculine type of walking, sitting and gesturing pretty unattractive and although I did, while in my twenties, make some vague attempt to be more macho, I gave it up. Very few people have the courage to ask me why I'm wearing effeminate clothing let alone mention my so called effeminate mannerisms.
There was a really interesting discussion on Dan Savage's podcast about how these days even among gays effeminate mannerisms are criticized due to the development of bro culture among gays and particularly on the dating sites. That was depressing! I have hung out with American gay men most of my life partly because I found their mannerisms more comfortable. I may have to return to Europe!
