Males modelling latex as fashion wear is a rare sight compared to women’s latex fashion. So, when we spotted the social media account Rock in Rubber mixing and matching latex with other clothing, often in casual or outdoor settings, we took notice and invited him to have a chat.
Would you like to introduce yourself to our readers, such as what kind of content you post on your social media channels, maybe anything you’d like to say about yourself or your interests?
My name is Dan though most people know me under the name RockinRubber
Latex clothing has been a fascination of mine for as far back as I can remember. I typically post and display latex on social media in a casual sense though I do enjoy the more extravagant garments too. I’m quite a shy person in general but latex really helps bring a more confident version of myself to the world.
How and when did you discover latex clothing?
My earliest memories of latex would have been via TV and Movies in the 90s as a child. I was often exposed to latex and PVC clothing in music videos also. The Spice Girls being a standout for me.
I recall during early infant school someone in my class had a black PVC coat, it just caught my attention from the moment I laid eyes on it. It’s funny because I would only have been around 6 years old.
It was later I really discovered it was latex where my true passion resided as opposed to PVC.
Judging by the majority of your content, it seems there is something appealing to you specifically about wearing latex as alternative fashion and in some casual settings. Can you put your finger on where that appeal lies?
I’ve always really enjoyed Alternative fashion.
For me it just made sense to combine my love of Latex into this style. Goth, Punk, Rock fashion. It helps that I like the music that goes along with it. I’ve always been interested in such styles seen in films like Blade, Underworld or even the medieval style of Lord of the Rings.
Really the appeal is to be able to wear the things I enjoy. I often just wear latex trousers at home, so it comes naturally to wear it in a casual sense.
Latex fashion, alternative fashion, fetish fashion – Just some of the terms which attempt to categorise latex when worn as fashion. Do each of these terms mean a different thing to you, and would you have a preference for one or the other?
I would say in general I would use Latex or Alt fashion.
With that said I am happy with all titles. After all, latex is my fetish which is really the foundation for me.
For me it’s being able to take a fetish and make the transition to be able to enjoy it in an “everyday life“ setting.
Many of your shots are taken outside, but are they ever among the public? If so, what has the reaction been to your outfits?
When I started venturing out publicly in latex it was terrifying. Being quite shy the idea of getting attention of any kind really scared me.
Most of the time however most people tend to mind their business. You get the odd stare which you’d expect given the unique visuals of latex clothing. I haven’t had anyone come and speak to me yet regards my clothing. Public latex is still something I am exploring and growing with.
I once read that only rock musicians can get away with wearing leather trousers. It is perhaps fortunate that you’re into music because latex is another level beyond leather! What do you like about combining latex and music, even as far as it inspiring your username?
I think when you look back at say Alice Cooper’s style you could imagine him wearing latex jeans or a jacket on stage. I think it just works within the genre. The Goth and Punks origin can be dated back to the emergence of Fetish Fashion.
I think for me the appeal is the idea that rock is raw, expressive and unpolished. Especially Punk Rock. I think when you are playing a heavy distorted riff whilst wearing latex it makes you feel great but also, I think it gives latex a more “Badass” feel and look. Rock isn’t as mainstream anymore so the two meet nicely in the middle.
My username came from my inspiration of rock music and of course rocking the clothing that inspires me also.
So many female musicians have worn latex, but very few males. Why do you think this is? Do you think we will ever get a new music-driven subculture of eccentric fashion – like we had with the punks, the glam rockers, or the new romantics – which might allow men’s latex fashion space to develop?
Latex has been very well represented from female musicians. St Vincent is a favourite of mine. She has worn a lot of latex in her videos and on stage, she looks amazing doing so. The last 10 years or so has been amazing for showcasing latex.
I think there’s a gap there just waiting to be filled for male performers. I think in this day and age where society is becoming more open to self-expression it’s just a matter of time before we see it emerge.
I think a new wave of Punk, New Romantic would work very well but I think you could put latex in a boy band environment too.
I think it could work across the board if you approached it right. I think it just takes someone who just doesn’t care about norms, labels or categories to go ahead and wear it.
Do you have any tips on feeling confident wearing latex as alternative fashion, and potentially in public?
When wearing latex in public I would say take baby steps. You need to get used to the feel of it outside and become confident. I would say start with a matte un-shined latex t-shirt or trousers. Wear them in a quiet place and build up to it. I’m still working on this myself.
Aside from that you just have to wear whatever it is you want and own it! Latex is just a material, it’s just clothing. It’s for everyone, no matter age, shape or gender. Confidence can be built so if you feel uncertain at first, do not worry.
Finally, we noticed you have an E-Book coming soon, which sounds exciting – care to share some further details?
I decided to write an E-book to really tell my story with latex. The book will go through my early years and discovery and follow on up till now. This includes first wearing latex, opening up to others about it and my preferences. I’m almost finished so keep an eye out.
We certainly will! Thanks to Dan for taking part. You may follow him on his social media channels below:
