Trucks, balls, and videogames spread throughout the store with the colors blue, green, and orange popping out – what section of the toy store are you in? 

Now, you are looking at makeup pallets, dolls, and princesses. Pink and purple are the main colors – who are you shopping for? 

When people buy gifts for their children, grandchildren, or friends, they often buy things that are “made” specifically for boys or girls. What many people do not realize is that what is known as boy and girl colors, games, or names is simply a construct that was created by society. 

When a male or female is born, he or she is urged to like certain colors, go by certain pronouns, like certain toys, and have “male” and “female” names. As a society, we have all collectively agreed to follow these gender “norms.” 

This means the ideas that girls should play with dolls and that boys should play with trucks are not real; they are norms that were made up by society years ago and still exist today.

There is a difference between gender and sex. 

The definition of sex is biological. Sex is the reproductive parts that you are born with and whether you have X or Y chromosomes. On the other hand, gender is how you choose to express yourself.

Gender is a product of society; sex is biological. Since society determines what is masculine and feminine, it could also change what is considered to be masculine or feminine. 

Famous singer and songwriter Harry Styles wears dresses and makeup, which are two things that much of society would consider feminine. 

“There’s so much joy to be had in playing with clothes. I’ve never thought too much about what it means—it just becomes this extended part of creating something.”: Read our full December cover story starring @Harry_Styles here: https://t.co/yILujUQQae pic.twitter.com/qwpGKBSQey

— Vogue Magazine (@voguemagazine) November 13, 2020

“I definitely think in the last two years, I’ve become a lot more content with who I am. I think there’s so much masculinity in being vulnerable and allowing yourself to be feminine, and I’m very comfortable with that,” Styles said during an interview with American actor Timothée Chalamet.

The fact that Styles is not ashamed, but embraces this, is a huge breaking point in society and shows that these gender barriers are being broken down. 

Ever since certain gender barriers have been installed into our world, both men and women have followed these norms. Some people have been ashamed or nervous to express themselves. Since Styles is a worldwide loved celebrity, he is changing these norms by encouraging people to be themselves. 

Society is ready for a change.