When did you first realize that gender was a thing? Were you given barbies and painted a pink room? Were you told that playing with toy trucks was a boy activity? In today’s society, it feels like everything is gender conforming––especially fashion. However, not every person fits the constructed category of “boy” or “girl,” so having gender-neutral clothing options is v important in terms of representation.
Going into a store, it is pretty easy to see the separated departments (how could you not when “men” and “women” hang in bold letters over the racks?), but these two clothing sections don’t have to be definitive. You can shop anywhere and anything you want, and borrowing clothes from the opposite sex is a great idea if it means feeling more comfortable in your own skin. Sounds a lot simpler right? If you’re looking for a place to start with buying clothes that are gender-neutral (even if they are marketed with a specific sex in mind), here are a few essential pieces to kick off your new wardrobe.
1. Wool-blend Coat (H&M, $99)
Sizes: 34R-52R
This coat found in H&M’s men’s section is essential as winter approaches. Coats are the best way to dress up an outfit and stay warm at the same time. The model wears the coat with a sweatshirt and flannel, a great way to make a classic piece edgy.
2. Eckford Box Pocket Tee (Wildfang, $35)
Sizes: S-2XL
Wildfang is breaking all boundaries with gendered clothes and creating affordable items for everyone. This classic tee not only has a vintage look, but is also 100 percent cotton for a cozy and comfortable feel.
3. Six Crisp Days Glasgow Turtleneck Midi Dress (Urban Outfitters, $109)
Sizes: XS/S, M/L
This cozy olive dress can be worn in so many ways. Paired with military boots, flats, jeans––it is very versatile and stylish. Throw on a leather jacket over it for an edgy touch, or add a pointed toe shoe for a classic look.
4. Sherpa Jacket (Muttonhead, $243)
Sizes: S-XL
Muttonhead has promised to make all of their clothes gender free since 2009. This Canadian brand creates clothes perfect for hiking and cold weather, and this jacket specifically is the perfect throwback style to give you a retro look.
5. PG+CO Unisex Trousers (Photo/Genics + Co, $180)
Sizes: S-L
The clothes from this brand are originally designed with the intention to break the gender stereotype. Like these amazing trousers (which you def need), the brand has a variety or gender neutral sweaters, shirts and jackets.
6. Dickies X UO Cutoff 874 Work Pant (Urban Outfitters, $49.00)
Sizes: 30-36
These versatile work pants can add to style to any button up, sweater or even just a t-shirt. Wear with heeled boots or sneakers and get a perfect effortlessly-cool outfit.
7. Bee-Print Short Sleeves (Gender Free World, $69)
Sizes: See Size Guide
Gender Free World is dedicated to creating clothes that can be accessed and worn by everyone. This bumble shirt can go with any pair of jeans, slacks, trousers or skirts for a fun and flirty vibe. According to the website, it will also fit perfectly because of their unique size guide.
Just a disclaimer that this collection of suggestions contained both gender-neutral and non-gender-neutral brands because, frankly, there are not many affordable unisex clothing suppliers options out there. This is frustrating for anyone looking for non-gendered clothes, because tbh, most of those brands are high fashion and cost hundreds of dollars. We hope that one day every brand will be able to sell gender-neutral clothes, remove separated areas in their stores and make pieces like the above affordable for everyone. Fashion doesn’t have to be elite or conforming, so let’s move closer to that utopia.