A friend complained that her daughter was increasingly choosing the “wrong” clothes that she would approve of. No, she doesn’t make trouble, she doesn’t insist categorically “either-or.” (And rightly so, I think! The relationship with your daughter is still more important than the trousers or skirts that the girl is wearing now). But sometimes he nevertheless tries to give advice. True, so far without success.
So I took my breath away in our conversation. Her daughter is a very sweet girl, with delicate features. It seems to the mother that her wardrobe should consist of things that emphasize femininity and sophistication. And Masha chooses things that seem to be made for men. “So she chose a masculine style!” — I understood the essence of family contradictions. And she tried to calm her friend down, explaining to her that Maria was not just a beauty, but also a real smart girl. After all, her images demonstrate that the girl is well versed in modern fashion trends, choosing current and practical models.
Let's figure out why women began to imitate the stronger sex, and whether it is worth borrowing elements of cut, models and styles from men.
How men's style entered the women's wardrobe
Masculine (another common name for a fashion trend) style is not new in the fashion world. Ladies looked at the clothes of representatives of the stronger half of humanity back in past centuries.
Reference. It is believed that in Europe, a woman in a man's suit first appeared in the 19th century. The French writer Georges Sand decided to do this.
But not only in Europe the convenience of men's clothing was appreciated. Young ladies from the families of Russian nobles, including Russian empresses, could not do without it on horseback rides.
And in the last century this tradition continued. So, Marlene Dietrich, the German and American actress, considered a sex symbol of her time, was seen more than once in a men's trouser suit.
A Coco Chanel promoted a masculine style, believing that it adds special attractiveness and charm to the female image. After all, the trendsetter was also sure that combining incongruous things is a skill and a sign of the courage of a real woman.
And the young ladies gladly picked up the trend proposed by the legendary Coco.
What attracts women to men's clothing
Why did women, at the first hints of freedom and equality, begin to change their wardrobes? Are ruffles and frills, lace and yokes, ribbons and bows bad? Of course not! All this was, is and will certainly be important in the decor of a woman’s dress. But it does not replace the advantages and benefits of men's clothing.
- Relevance. Masculine style does not lose its long-term (or even centuries-old) popularity. Probably not a single fashion show is complete without such models. That's why, wearing a suit made in a men's style, a woman looks fashionable and modern.
- Practicality. Trousers became the first piece of clothing that young ladies borrowed.And they don’t think about them! Pants replace a skirt and eliminate the need to wear tights or stockings with a belt over a skirt.
- Convenience. If in the 19th century ladies wore trousers for riding, today there are many more situations where trousers are much more comfortable than a skirt. And this is not just cycling, driving or active walks with children. In any everyday situation, trousers are more comfortable, and in cool weather they are also warmer.
- Attractiveness. At all times, women dreamed of standing out and tried to attract attention. Masculine style is very suitable for these purposes. Still would! How can you not notice a girl in a man's tie or suspenders in a company of beauties with bows or frills? After all, despite the relevance of this fashion trend, girls do not completely wear things “borrowed” from guys. That's why such images are usually isolated and individual.
- Sexuality. The same Coco Chanel drew attention to the ability to emphasize feminine features with the help of men's cut clothing. She showed that the contrast of rough and somewhat baggy things and the delicate, soft outlines of the figure favorably represents the female image.
Important! Clothes in men's style have no restrictions. Women of any age and body type can afford it.
What is masculine style?
You have already realized that even if you don’t make this trend the basis of your wardrobe, you shouldn’t categorically refuse the opportunity to show off in a new look. This means that your wardrobe should have things suitable for this.
Cloth
Reference. Clothing in a masculine style is characterized by the use of a more strict and laconic cut, the choice of dark and durable fabrics with discreet prints.
- Pantsuit. It's not just the lack of a skirt that gives the suit its masculinity. Other important details are also required: wide trousers, always with creases, a double-breasted jacket with emphasized shoulders, small-check fabric.
- Blazer. A good alternative to a jacket. Can be combined not only with trousers, but also with jeans. It will completely replace a windbreaker if the forecast promises windy weather.
- Shirt. Ladies often literally borrow this detail from men. In addition, designers offer shirts specially designed for ladies. They are sewn from shirt fabric and can be either loose or fitted.
- Mike. Girls have learned to wear a T-shirt not as underwear. It allows you to feel comfortable on a hot day and becomes a kind of top option if you wear a jacket or shirt over a T-shirt.
Shoes
The boots that we are so accustomed to also found their way into the collection of women's shoes from the wardrobe of the stronger sex.
And designers today emphasize this similarity. And not only in rough models, but also in elegant shoes. Comfortable derbies, monks, oxfords or loafers are worn by many girls these days.
Accessories
Accessories become a complement or highlight of the created image. A hat, a formal tie, suspenders, a massive belt, and cufflinks are expressive features of a masculine style.
Have you already decided what to add to your look? By the way, my friend not only decided, but also tried it. She liked it and her daughter approved.