Maskeraden i S:t Petersburg

Putins pojkar på Fallskärmstruppernas dag

Abstract

The uniform is a form of dress meant to standardize the appearance and express loyalty towards the institution. However, in the case discussed, a reunion of Russian paratroopers in 2003, the situation is more complicated. Using the method of visual ethnography a few tendencies in this masquerade are outlined in relation to theories of critical masculinity and history of fashion. Some participants chose to emphasise a warrior-like look, while others declined authority and discipline by appearing in underwear and refashioning berets to funny sailors' caps.