Boys. Why are their lives so easy? I mean, let’s talk fashion: your typical boy just throws on whatever smells the least like sweat and dinner from last night. They wear what is comfortable, and they wear it because they can. And us girls just accept that as the way things are. Why can’t we do that? Just throw on whatever has been on our floor for a week and be completely confident walking about campus? Instead, we wake up early, pick out some adorable statement-making outfit, do our hair and makeup; even on our worst days are expected to look our best. And then, of course, the best part of the day finally comes when we get back to our room, throw off that adorable outfit, and put on the ultimate, cozy, oversized t-shirt, sweater or flannel.
I don’t know about you, but my wardrobe has begun to consist of “half-girl half-boyfriend,” clothes. The trend with oversized flannels, tees, and boyfriend jeans, even full pantsuits, has made a comeback- and I say comeback, because believe it or not, donning men’s clothing is nothing new to the most fashionable individuals. More importantly, it is also nothing to just be worn in comfort of our homes; these outfits are to be proudly displayed as they have been through history. In a recent article I was readingtt in the fashion section of The Wall Street Journal (“Women’s Fashion Turns to Menswear”), it hit me that borrowing from boys is something that some of the most alluring women in our pastime have done. From Katherine Hepburn, to Jackie Kennedy, to Coco Chanel, these trendsetting women were all advocates for shopping in not only men’s wardrobes, but in men’s stores. More than just realizing that men’s clothes are sometimes cheaper, fashion experts have noted that many men’s styles are timeless. Think about it: crew necks, button downs, coats- all can be worn whenever, by whomever, and can always look chic.
Sometimes, women need a break from the form fitting, high maintenance, and sexy looks that are constantly sold in traditionally female retail stores. Even the most glamorous of women in history felt the same way; so girls, steal your boyfriends shirts, dare to shop in the men’s section, even rock that pantsuit to the next interview. Dare to be bold, and dare to channel your inner Coco Chanel in that oversized boyfriend crewneck, leggings, and boots. Just don’t forget to thank your man on your way out!
Photo: Katherine Hepburn for Time Magazine by Alfred Eisenstaedt