Kyle Echarri’s Crop Top Rebellion

The power of personal style

In an era where gender norms in fashion are being increasingly challenged, male celebrities who dare to push boundaries become important catalysts for social change. This is particularly significant in conservative Asian societies, where traditional masculinity often dictates rigid fashion choices for men. Kyle Echarri‘s fearless approach to fashion isn’t just about personal style—it represents a broader cultural shift, challenging deep-seated notions about masculinity and self-expression in the Philippines and beyond.

The significance of a male celebrity wearing items traditionally coded as feminine, such as crop tops, cannot be understated in a society where gender roles are often strictly defined. When public figures like Kyle embrace such choices, they help normalize fluid fashion expressions for countless young people who might be hesitant to express themselves freely due to societal pressures.

One of the most striking examples of Kyle’s foray into daring fashion was his decision to wear a crop top. He recounts the experience with a mix of excitement and nonchalance, describing how he initially questioned the choice but ultimately embraced it.

Beyond the binary

“I opened it, and then I saw the three options, three prods. One of them was a crop top. And I was like, is this real? Am I really gonna wear a crop top?” Kyle recalls. That moment of hesitation quickly gave way to confidence as he decided to just “rock it.”

Kyle’s exploration of carefree fashion extends beyond just crop tops. He mentions his comfort with wearing flared pants and his openness to shopping in the women’s section. “It’s just whatever you’re comfortable with. Whatever you want to wear, that’s what you do,” he states. Such fluidity in his fashion choices reflects a broader trend in the industry towards more inclusive and diverse styles that transcend gender boundaries.

The young star’s approach to fashion is not about making a statement or deliberately trying to be different. Instead, it’s about authenticity and personal comfort. “I’m not trying to be different. It’s just if I like it, put it on. If you don’t, don’t put it on,” Kyle explains. His fashion choices are simply an extension of his personality and what feels right to him at the moment. An authentic approach like this resonates with many young people who are increasingly rejecting rigid gender norms in favor of more fluid and personalized style expressions.

His embrace of fashion also aligns with his broader perspective on life and self-expression. Throughout the interview, he emphasizes the importance of doing what makes you happy and not taking life for granted. His attitude extends to his fashion choices, where he encourages others to wear what excites them and makes them feel good—regardless of societal expectations.

The actor’s involvement with Maybelline further underscores his commitment to breaking down gender barriers in beauty and fashion. Kyle sees his role as an opportunity to “push the envelope that makeup’s for everyone.”

By embracing crop tops, exploring different sections of clothing stores, and advocating for makeup use regardless of gender, he is contributing to a more inclusive and diverse fashion landscape. Day by day and one crop top at a time, carefree fashion is becoming more common—breaking down barriers and redefining personal style for a new generation.

Photography Mark Nicdao

Creative direction Vince Uy

Grooming Ryan Ko and Cats Del Rosario

Models Franz Garcia, Craig Uy (New Monarq), and Moss Laygo (Mercator)

Fashion Ryuji Shiomitsu

Art direction Mike Miguel

Sittings editor Patrick Ty

Retouching PJ Calingasan

Production Jones Palteng

Photography assistants Cris Soco, Arsan Hofileña, James Bautista, and Phil Nicdao

Fashion assistants Ar Valdez and Nichole Anne Pura

On location The Cabin Resorts

Special thanks Mac Merla and Ginno Cruz