As women, we have various fashion standards and expectations to live up to in our daily lives. We are encouraged to wear clothing that accentuates our body shapes. We’re told to stay classy, sophisticated, and feminine; and be up-to-date with the latest trends. To top it off, we also are bombarded with messages on how to look via the media, fashion industry, and our family and friends.
Let’s compare this to menswear. Sure, there are menswear designers, retailers, and new fashion trends. However, it is far more consistent and true to its roots. Menswear is pretty straightforward: variations of shirts and pants with minimal accessories. Furthermore, their style stays just about the same throughout the seasons. Whereas for us women, the fashion industry pushes us to have different wardrobes for each season.
It’s exhausting. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like wearing tights, high heels, or sacrificing comfort for style. I want, no, WE should apply the principles of menswear to our own style. This doesn’t mean turning away from all women’s fashion. Rather, we can draw inspiration from menswear and apply that to our wardrobes.
To help you do this, here are some simple ways to do so:
1. Invest in a couple staple items: Menswear is not so dependent on the fluctuating fashion trends. It relies on owning some basic items you can easily incorporate and mix-and-match with the rest of your wardrobe.
2. Stop spending money on accessories: Womenswear is filled with a million options for accessories. Think about it… how many different pairs of earrings, necklaces, and bracelets do you have? Now think about the accessories men wear. They typically have a watch, a messenger bag or briefcase, and a pair or two of sunglasses.
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3. Vintage menswear is the way to go: The next time you’re at a vintage shop, Goodwill, or Ragstock, grab some pieces from the menswear section. Pro tip: Stick to flannels, button up shirts, and cardigans.
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4. Add small pops of color and pizazz: Notice how men typically incorporate small embellishments into their outfits, such as a bold tie, pocket square, or patterned sock. This keeps your outfit refined but still fun.
5. Comfort is key: Clothing does not need to be super uncomfortable or tight. Give yourself a break and choose something that is actually pleasant to wear.
In the words of the ever-stylish Don Draper from Mad Men, “Make it simple but significant.”