I USED TO BE A STUD 🌈

It's so interesting to reflect on different phases of our identity, especially when it comes to gender expression. When I think back to my 'stud era,' it wasn't just about clothes; it was a whole vibe, a way of carrying myself that felt authentic and powerful. For those wondering, 'what is a stud person?' – in the queer community, especially among Black women, a 'stud' often refers to a masculine-presenting woman. It's an identity, a style, and sometimes even a subculture. We often embrace a more masculine aesthetic, from our haircuts to our posture. My 'stud outfits' used to be my armor. I loved pairing a sharp baseball cap with a graphic t-shirt, ripped jeans, and my favorite sneakers. I remember my dreadlocks – styling them in different ways that accentuated my masculine presentation was a key part of my look. It’s not just about being a tomboy; there's a distinct swagger and confidence that comes with being a stud. I saw myself reflected in other 'black studs woman' out there, and that community felt like home. We were 'stud baddies,' owning our unapologetic sense of self. The beautiful thing about gender expression is that it's often fluid. Many of us navigate between different presentations, whether we identify as 'genderfluid' or simply enjoy exploring different facets of ourselves. The journey from a more masculine 'stud' look to embracing a 'feminine style' can be really profound. It's not always a conscious decision to 'switch up'; sometimes, as our bodies change, our relationship with our style evolves too. I’ve seen so many discussions about 'studs, fems, and stems,' recognizing the spectrum of identities within our community. It highlights that there's no one way to be queer or to express masculinity or femininity. One of the biggest challenges for me has been navigating body changes. When your body starts to shift, maybe gaining curves or developing in ways you didn't expect, it can feel like your established 'stud mentality' and aesthetic are being tested. Suddenly, those same 'stud outfits' might not feel quite right, or the 'tomboy stud dread styles' might not align with how you feel about your face shape or body now. It's a process of rediscovery. Ultimately, it's about honoring where you are right now. Whether you're a proud 'stud person,' exploring a more 'feminine style,' or comfortably existing somewhere in between, your identity is valid. It's about finding new ways to express yourself that feel authentic, even if it means retiring some old looks. Embracing these shifts, even when they challenge our past selves, is all part of the journey. It’s okay to miss your past looks, but it’s also exciting to see what new styles and expressions await you.