Boldly vocal, fiercely proud, and unapologetically direct - or: why women can dress the way they want to

In the pulsating heart of the metal scene, amidst thunderous riffs and intense emotions, women are not merely supporters by the sidelines—they are formidable forces igniting the stage. Indeed, some choose ensembles as fiery as their guitar solos, embracing leather, lace, or sometimes barely there outfits. But let's get one thing straight: their choice of attire, whether it's leather, lace, or a daring display of skin, is a personal statement, and it's high time to discard any antiquated biases. Here are five compelling reasons why the bold fashion choices of female artists should not be grounds for superficial judgments.

Let's address a simple truth: The impact of a masterful guitar riff is unaffected by whether it's played by a woman in a miniskirt or a man in tattered jeans. The power to mesmerize an audience with potent vocals, compelling rhythms, or enchanting solos is entirely independent of one's attire. Musicians like Doro Pesch, Floor Jansen, and Simone Simons, among others, have taken the world stage by storm, demonstrating that talent resonates more profoundly than any ensemble could ever hope to.

Metal embodies passion, a rebellion against societal norms, and often channels raw emotion. The stage stands as a sacred ground for artistic expression and presentation, outfit included. To critique this form of artistic endeavour by reducing it to mere sexual connotations is to undermine art as a medium of self-expression. It is the unequivocal right of every artist to present themselves exactly as they choose. Period!

A woman's choice of attire can serve as an act of defiance. It's a rejection of the stereotypical notion that women must dress 'modestly' to be respected. Her fashion becomes a declaration: “I am present, I am vocal, and I refuse to let anyone dictate my appearance.” The necessity for discussions like this in 2024 underscores the lengthy journey still ahead towards achieving equality. How frequently do we debate the stage outfits of musicians? Hardly ever, if at all!

The metal scene boasts its diversity and inclusiveness, often likened to a 'big family,' a notion that has been challenged but remains cherished. Its self-love, despite—or perhaps because of—its heterogeneity, is a testament to its spirit. Diminishing women to merely their appearance contradicts this ethos. Celebrating the freedom for everyone to showcase their unique style and identity on stage reinforces the message that metal is universal, transcending gender, age, looks, or fashion preferences. Should all metal musicians decide to perform in turtlenecks tomorrow, it would unmistakably remain metal.

It's high time to rewrite the narrative. Women in metal are pioneers, artists, and revolutionaries who sculpt the scene with every note they play and every word they sing. Their style is a reflection of their individuality, not a yardstick for their talent. Let's crank up the music and celebrate diversity at its loudest and most splendid. Metal embodies freedom — freedom that encompasses the right to wear whatever one chooses.