Put away the lace and frills and rummage through your gentleman’s closet. While it may seem counter-intuitive, women dressing in menswear is the perfect way to channel your femininity. Katherine Hepburn notoriously wore trousers when Hollywood starlets were all about the glam, Annie Hall revolutionized the way we look at a vest and tie, hell Whoopi Goldberg couldn’t dress any more manly, but I digress.
Menswear worn fitted to the female silhouette brings about the kind of androgyny that made Annie Lennox and Bianca Jagger sex symbols. Sure a girl in stilettos is sexy, but a woman in a top hat and vest is sharp and sexy. Borrowing from the boys isn’t just about wearing a button up or slapping on a tie, it’s a slick mix of the masculine elements of sharp tailoring with feminine detailing and coloring.
Sharp Shirts
What’s a man in a suit without an amazingly fitted shirt? Whether crisp white or light pinstripes this is a menswear staple that can be paired with everything from trousers to skinnies, depending on what type of “guy” you’re channeling.
Trousers, but of course
Unless you plan on wearing a kilt, the options for male skirts are limiting. Diane Keaton is a master of the loose-fitting trouser. Paired with a thin belt and feminine blouse, you’ll look as smart (if not smarter) than most chaps.
Blazer a trail
Blazers are a crossover item, being as much feminine as they are masculine. To channel more of the men’s side, go for over-sized in the sleeve and longer lengths while still being a bit fitted in the waist.
Be Inspired in Accessories
There’s nothing more trite than wearing a fedora or spectator heel, so you won’t read that here. Go for lesser know accessories like the bowler hat, pocket watch, brogues or pocket square. Still manly but less predictable.
I love masculine looks for women. I think I love those studded oxfords even more.
I am really into feminine looks so to incorporate this trend, I’ll probbaly bring some frill or sheerness to these looks. Like with an oversize blazer a lace/subtle frill skirt so it just peeks out under the jacket. or the trousers with a semi sheer blouse. I, personally, cant get into the oxford for some reason. But I’m all about the military inspired boots for fall. High, low, cuffs, straps…all about em.
I agree that you can’t go to overly masculine or it will look customey
[...] Stylish Thought: Great tips for channeling your masculine side [...]
I agree with Naimah. When I wear menswear inspired items I tend to add feminine accents: pencil skirt with a ruffle on the side or rear, oxford heels instead of flats, ruffle blouses, feather/netted hat or fascinators, and bow ties with a vibrant print. I’ve picked up several bow ties at thrift stores, and my favorite is very similar to the one you have featured. However, it’s pink and teal.
Next on my list? A tuxedo jacket/blazer. I’ve found several in the men’s section at thrift stores, but haven’t found one that fits just right.
Chandra
One other menswear trend? Spats. I’ve found several pairs on Etsy. LOVE THEM.
Yaaaaaaaaasssss! I want to do some DIY spats, if I ever get time!
I have a few male white button downs, I just roll up the sleeves and it’s perfect – could be tighter fitting, of course, but, heh, something’s gotta give
and then I also have a pair of jeans some belts.
some pieces men have in their closets… they don’t even know how great they are! until I come along and show them
Men would be lost without us, stylewise and otherwise
nice post
thumbs up for you. I always love man’s fashion and on my last outfit pant I even wear my dad’s trouser 