As Sydney’s gay community preens and pumps iron in the lead-up to the Mardi Gras parade, some are speaking out about the intensely appearance-focussed culture that accompanies the yearly pride festival. But just how important are looks to gay men searching for love?
A study from Sydney-based D&M Research suggests appearance is a high priority among gay and bisexual men – and a failure to measure up to the fit, masculine ideal, can be a dealbreaker.