Wardrobe Wire recently got the following question asked to us via email:
I was wondering if you could give me any tips on where I could find some androgynous clothing. Websites maybe? I guess you could say I'm a tomboy who likes the style of men’s clothing but isn't the right shape for it. Think boyish lesbian...not diesel dyke...or lumberjack who wears shit kickin' boots. :)
Fortunately for this reader, “androgynous clothing” is in style for fall and even spring. Also, in case you have not noticed, the “boyfriend” look came back a couple years ago…. boyfriend sweaters and boyfriend jeans (made very popular by Katie Holmes, for example).
Marlene Dietrich is the perfect example of this androgynous look that was popular circa WWII and is making a comeback. And, NO, this look is not strictly for lesbians.
Often, I feel sexiest (believe it or not) in fitted slacks and a button up, collared shirt with the sleeves cuffed. I get complimented the most when I am wearing a suit.
Things to add to your wardrobe to achieve this look include:
Pleaded trousers, wide leg, looser fit.
A French cuff oxford shirt in any color or even in pinstripe. Maybe unbutton it a little so your lady or man can check out your cleavage (if you feel comfortable and she or he likes that). Cuff the sleeves or add cuff links.
A v-neck boyfriend sweater. If it’s extra chilly wear a collared shirt underneath.
As an accessory to your oxford shirt, wear a man’s tie knotted very loose and low almost like a necklace (add a tie clip or pin for that extra touch).
A blazer! They’ll never go out of style and you can wear them with jeans and a tank or with any of the above mentioned.
Oxford tie shoes, penny loafers, or saddle shoe. Motorcycle boots are popular this year for guys and girls as well.
Patterned socks. Socks were a popular item on the runway for Fall 2010.
A vest.
A larger/mans watch.
As long as you know the above items and know your size…. you can find them at any department store, Banana Republic, Club Monaco, Theory, or J.Crew. You can also find many of the above items at: Old Navy, The Gap, Target, Ross Dress for Less, and Loehmann’s. Also, American Apparel can be very androgynous. Don't discriminate against ebay.com or overstock.com either!
If you can’t find your right size don’t be afraid to get your clothes tailored.
Check our gallery for examples!
