I absolutely love menswear pieces and find that I naturally gravitate toward looks that incorporate masculine styling. My menswear adoration comes from three themes that I find consistently present, particularly when using suiting as a frame of reference.
First, the structure: I’m specifically seeing the strong shoulder lines and lengthening that a well-fitted blazer offers, especially for women who are shorter in stature.
Next, the tailoring: Perfectly tailored suit separates provide flattering silhouettes and I always believe that when pieces of clothing look as if they were specifically made for you, it instantly elevates the look.
And finally, the practicality: When it comes to dressing professionally, there’s a true convenience factor associated with wearing dress pants (as opposed to a dresses) or layering with a blazer used as a jacket. I’ve never walked into an office setting that didn’t have the air conditioning high enough to leave me shivering, so I often think of a blazer as an indoor jacket, and in LA, it works perfectly as an outdoor one too. Oh and loafers - gosh, I just adore them. In my mind they’re the most comfortable footwear one can own outside of sneakers, but they simultaneously offer beautiful polish.
While I was head-over-heels in love with so many of the menswear runway looks in London and Europe, I saw plenty of similarly inspired styles in the women’s shows.
When it comes to styling menswear pieces, I am always conscious of delivering a balanced look that still showcases softer, feminine elements such that I still feel authentically me when I look in the mirror. I truly appreciate the visual interest that comes with masculine and feminine contrast.
Here are my favorite ways to celebrate these antonyms within a singular outfit.
Incorporate oversized jewelry - especially earrings, into the styling for a high-contrast metallic that makes a stunning statement.
Leverage softer, contrasting neutrals, such as white, beige, or light tan, particularly through pants, skirts, or dresses.
Wear heels or sandals that instantly cut through the masculine elements.
Add a feminine bag - and I’m personally bias toward a clutch because of the way in which they’re carried.
Wear your hair down as opposed to pulling it back. This provides the most organic contrast.
Cheers to taking inspiration from the men, but always making it our own.
x jz
Images | 1 - 5 | WWD | 6 - 9 | @b.g.mckay styled by me
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I worry I look too masculine, particularly during the day when I don't want to wear a heel. Your jewellery suggestion will help, a category I often ignore!
I am also inspired by more masculine pieces - sometimes I even pick a style icon like Ralph Lauren or Paul Newman for my mood boards instead of a woman. Agree with you on the structure but for me it’s also the lack of fuss - let the clothes and their textures speak for themselves!