DRESS CODE – SYDNEY LEATHER MEN INC. (SLM)
The Dress Code Of Sydney Leather Men Incorporated.
As our name suggests, leather is at the heart of what we do! While we’ve embraced a more relaxed approach for many of our social events—where leather is encouraged but not essential to encourage a wider participation—we’re keen to reaffirm our ongoing commitment and preference to a ‘Major’ piece dress code that also honours the past and importantly our vision.
Leather and Denim began as a movement inspired stylistically by biker clubs and was largely influenced by Marlon Brando’s character in the 1953 film The Wild One. The Leather and Denim appearance became popular among gay men, who used it to reject the stereotype that homosexual men were “effeminate.” Leather and Denim started appearing in mainstream media as early as the 1970s with ‘Cruising’, the movie with Al Pacino. In the ‘80s and ‘90s, artists like Tom of Finland, Robert Mapplethorpe, continued to showcase it and stylise it as the look of masculinity and sex appeal.
SLM was founded as an affinity space for ‘leather men’ who identify as male or masculine and are attracted to others who identify similarly whether from birth or through gender affirming expression as detailed in our inclusion policy. We remain committed to making sure leather attire remains central to our events and our preferred dress code while embracing the origins of leather and denim history.
We absolutely welcome newcomers, first-timers and the curious who may not have their leather gear yet. But, after attending a few events and getting comfortable in our community, we strongly encourage investing in a major piece of leather or borrowing from one of our many generous leather brothers, you only have to ask!
As we head into warmer months, we understand that the dress code may need to be a bit more flexible to accommodate the heat. That said, there are plenty of summer-suitable pieces that still fit within our dress code. Above all else, we recommend wearing as much leather as is sensible and comfortable for you in the warmer weather—while staying true to the spirit of our leather community!
