This item appeared online today on Netscape/CNN News:

>New Breed of Men: Metrosexuals

Metrosexual: (noun) Of or pertaining to a straight, urban male who is eager to embrace and even show off his feminine side, especially when it comes to expensive haircuts, designer suits, and $40 face cream.

And thanks to a certain type of male celebrity (read: David Beckham, Justin Timberlake, and Ben Affleck), it's now cool for a man to own 43 pairs of Bruno Magli shoes, wear moisturizer, and paint his nails. At least, that's what The New York Times and a handful of papers around the globe say.

The metrosexual guy is not gay. He's "just gay enough," opines the Dublin Daily. He can take real pride in his appearance. He can go shopping with his gal pals and help them mix and match their outfits and accessories. He can stop at the Clinique counter and purchase products--for himself. But unlike years past, he can do all this and still be considered manly. THAT is what the metrosexual revolution is all about.

Here's another way to look at it: When it comes to good grooming, the straight man is catching up to the gay man. Writes Dublin Daily reporter Frances Winston of metrosexuals, "They've embraced all the stereotypical qualities of homosexuality that make them a more groomed and well-rounded individual without 'changing sides.'"

The ultimate metrosexual is soccer hunk David Beckham. Here's a little known fact about this über-athlete: He paints his nails and wears sarongs. He goes to the hair salon to get perfect highlights. What's more, he doesn't care if you know that.

The Dublin Daily outs these famous metrosexuals and says why:

Justin Timberlake

He's obsessed with good grooming, especially his hair.
He loves his mom and says so.
He showed his sensitive side by admitting that Britney broke his heart.

Ben Affleck

Once committed to a wardrobe of sweatshirts and jeans, he's now one of the best-dressed men in Hollywood. (Thanks to J.Lo.)
He just landed a lucrative contract to promote L'Oreal male grooming products. When L'Oreal announced the deal, the rep said, "Ben embodies a new generation of men who show their strength in their personality, but are not afraid to care for their appearance."

Who is NOT a metrosexual?

Tommy Lee
Liam Gallagher<