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Womenswear a s Menswear By: Chelsea Velaga
Womenswear continually borrows stereotypically masculine staples, such as the OXFORD SHOE, the blazer, and the button-down. Frequently, these menswear pieces are altered for women through cinching, to accentuate curves for a slimmer, more complimentary fit. Recently, these cuts have loosened, taking the androgynous look even further. It has allowed for experimentation with pieces like draped, starched shirts and oversized, chunky cardigans. Elements of volume add spontaneity to a look: balance oversized shirts and sweaters with a fitted pant or leggings to avoid looking like a giant rectangle. The TROUSER is another example of a classic, masculine piece that can be worn loosely in order to create volume. Case in point: the popular “boyfriend” cut is supposed to replicate that “I was running late and all I had was my boyfriend’s pants to throw on with my heels” look. Accessories like slouchy beanies, bowties, and oversized watches channel a manly edge, but can also adapt to classically feminine outfits.
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Conversely, women have done their fair share of influence on men’s fashion. Stylistic choices for men have been widely broadened to include more stereotypically feminine cuts. Pants, shirts, and jackets have all been taken in, with many brands offering a slimmer alternative to the traditional straight silhouette. Scarves, hats, and jewelry are also becoming more unisex, signifying a more unified aesthetic. Influential brands such as American Apparel are known for applying the ‘unisex’ label to their clothes, blurring the line between what is acceptable for a man or woman to wear. Concurrently, bright and graphic prints have been reinvented, with applications on hats, collared shirts, and pants. There is no reason to stick to the navy, black, or grey suit anymore. While there is always a place for the classic black on Wall Street, John Galliano and Comme des Garçons have proved a place for prints in menswear.