A man wearing female-inspired clothing might garner some weird looks, but a woman in menswear will garner double takes.
Suits,
smoking jackets and leather Oxfords, while once the property of the
well-dressed man, have become staples of the fashionista’s wardrobe this
season. While menswear on women seldom shows much skin, the style
exudes a different type of sexuality, one that is polished, put together
and powerful.
Whether you want to go all out or just incorporate pieces into your
favorite outfits, there are many ways to up the masculinity in your
closet.
The blazer has already seen a few autumn rotations, but it
remains a seasonal favorite by coming back each year in new fits and
patterns. While the blazer has traditionally been a sexually ambiguous
piece, women’s blazers are now made with elbow patches, thick tweed
patterns and boxy shoulders, playing off of the classic men’s sport
coat.
The button-down blouse can also be seen in every store window. Again,
while a button down works for both men and women, the real change has
been with necklines. While women’s button downs traditionally have
deeper necklines, do as the boys do and button your blouse all the way.
This style is kept from looking too stuffy thanks to sheer fabrics,
lady-like collars and playful patterns. It should be topped off with a
classy statement necklace.
No well-dressed man is without a nice-fitting pair of slacks or dark
jeans, and the same goes for women. While menswear-inspired slacks are
still tailored for women’s bodies, it’s not in the typical curve-hugging
fashion that most women are familiar with. The looser fit of the slacks
looks best when paired with a fitted blouse and heels, which still
exude femininity despite the relaxed look of the pants.
Finally, don’t forget to top off your look. Fedoras, pork pies and
trilbys are all hats that can be taken from the indoors to out and from
day to night. Playful pixie cuts a la Carey Mulligan or long, side-swept
locks all look feminine and lovely underneath the crisp brim of a hat,
so when putting together your masculine look, keep in mind the cherry on
top.
Whether you want to simply pepper in some masculine pieces or go for
full-on androgyny, menswear is a great direction to take your wardrobe
if you want to look sexy yet sophisticated. There is something to be
said about a man in a perfectly tailored suit, and the same goes for
women who have the fortune to be able to work both male and female
looks. As autumn slowly makes its transition into winter, make your
fashion decisions like a man.
One of the boys
Get stories like this in your inbox
Subscribe



