Fashion is no longer bound by the lines of gender, a notion that makes me proud of the time that we’re living in. Given the growing number of gender-neutral fashion brands coming out, I’m constantly impressed by the way fashion challenges traditional notions of what it has historically meant to be “female” or “male.” Wouldn’t it be nice if fashion was one way in which we could transcend the stereotypes of gender? I definitely look at fashion as the most immediate form of self-expression, and I think for many people, it’s one way in which they can express themselves to move beyond a categorical trap–whether that be gender stereotypes or otherwise. Inspired by this shift we’re seeing in fashion, I wanted to share with you three items that I often shop for in the men’s section!
Denim Jackets
Every time I’ve bought a denim jacket from the women’s section, it has never achieved the over-sized, biker-type look I’ve tried to go for. I decided to switch over to the men’s section as I was shopping online at Nordstrom, and tried my luck with a Levi’s Denim Jacket. Needless to say, I was more than impressed. I’ve worn this jacket on flights, atop layers of sweaters on super cold days, and just casually when I’m headed out to run some errands.
J Brand Jeans
Levi’s Denim Jacket
Tod’s Handbag
Designer Tees
Little known fact–shopping for designer tees in the men’s section is WAY more affordable than looking for the same in the women’s section (you should feel special, I don’t share this with everyone–it’s my little secret). This bold and bright orange Men’s Versace tee is one I grabbed for $85!
IRO Paris Dress (as a coat)
Miu Miu Heels
Givenchy Bag
Versace Men’s Tee
“Office” Shirts
I’ll be totally honest, I often don’t even actually have to buy these. I like to raid my father’s closet and pick out his more bold-colored or bold-patterned office shirts (partly because I like them, but also because I know he never wears them so he won’t be missing anything). There are so many ways to wear these: as a cardigan over a tee or sweater, tucked into high-waisted pants/jeans, or, if the shirt is long enough, as a dress belted at the waist. Here, I paired my dad’s deep purple Calvin Klein office shirt with a deep purple Chanel lip.
I truly love discovering non-traditional ways and means to shop, in fact, starting to browse the men’s section has really allowed me to be more experimental with my style, thus standing out from the crowd. I hope we soon get to a space where it’s totally normal for men to shop in the women’s section and for women to shop in the men’s section, and really, for people of all genders to shop wherever they’d like to. Having the freedom to choose without fear of judgement is so important when it comes to developing a strong sense of personal style.
XOXO,
-MS
