Designers have planned shows and prepped models, bloggers have dusted off their keyboards and Jimmy Choos have been thrown across apartments in hopes of piecing together the perfect outfit. Prepare yourselves, ladies and gentleman — it’s September, and New York Fashion Week is upon us. I myself began preparations by finessing a copy of Harper’s Bazaar from my dorm lobby and scouring the internet to investigate what designers have been up to this season. This week, I want to focus on the one of the biggest trends that has hit the runway this season: the androgynous.
Androgynity focuses on the blurred line between what is considered masculine and what is considered feminine. I am a huge advocate of this trend, especially for women, because it opens your wardrobe up to different shapes, cuts and lengths you might usually overlook, because they’re associated with a “masculine look.” Some pieces related to this trend include: pleated trousers, pant suits, loafers, Chelsea boots, Oxfords, oversized coats and leather jackets and turtlenecks. As for colors, the trend focuses a lot on dark colors such as greys, blacks and browns. To envision what this trend looks like, think of the apparel in any dystopian film you have seen and that’s about it.
For a quick androgynous outfit, try starting with a pair of trousers. You can opt for a simple pair, such as a slate grey or black, or a patterned print, such as houndstooth. The shape is completely up to you. Depending on the look you are going for, you can opt for a pair that tapers at the ankle or, if you enjoy the 1920s paperboy look, get an oversized wide-leg pair and roll them at the ankle. Next, pair the trousers with a solid colored turtleneck, preferably black for this look.
As for accessories, a belt is a must because it pulls the look together and stands as one of the few accessories this style allows due to the masculine aspect. Because of this, jewelry isn’t really a large component. For that touch of femininity, I would say a stud earring will do you just fine. Also, for this look, I would pair it with an oversized infinity scarf that you are able to pull over your head; it gives a polished feel.
Shoes are also a very big component to the androgynous look. The shoe is to look smart and classic. Therefore, something like a loafer or a Chelsea boot will fit the mold just right. There are so many different types of each available today that it shouldn’t be too hard to find something that is perfect for you. Two good places to look for either of these shoes is Topshop and Asos. They both offer a wide variety of very nice quality shoes and free shipping.
If you’d like to experiment with the androgynous trend, or experiment in general, don’t feel obligated to stay in the women’s section. The men’s section offers an amazing selection of pieces that, in my opinion, are more stylish than those on the women’s side.