This write-up was for a client that I ghostwrite for. They place the finished work on different platforms.
GENDER EXPRESSION & WOMEN IN FASHION
What is fashion? Since the beginning; it’s considered a state of being, but being what? The origin of fashion was very unisex, with styles changing every decade, not season. Mass commercialism and uniformity came into play a long time after fashion started to be labeled and gender focused. Fashion was also a tool to gauge a person’s wealth and level in society. It’s only since clothing was manufactured and organized for money, that there was a need to start labeling things according to gender. Times have changed, or rather, circled back to its original state. The most prevalent and popular trends of the season have large masculine silhouettes and are currently adorned on the female demographic. Yes, more women are embracing the masculine broad shoulders of the 1980’s power woman, or just relaxed ‘casual sexy’. Gender stereotypes are now becoming dissolved. A new wave of fashion forward individuals, who refuse to be defined by their gender, has emerged. No longer will this generation of ‘cool kids’ be typecast into dated traditions of dressing. A clear evolution has taken place. There is beauty and uniqueness recognized in all people. Fashion is gender neutral, and it’s about time!
There have been ideas in progress to use style to break gender stereotypes. As a fashion conscious person, this is a great time for a change in the retail industry. There continue to be obstacles in demolishing gender bias. How exactly are women gender stereotyped? The summarized definition is the practice of ascribing to an individual woman (or man) specific attributes, characteristics, or roles by reason only of her (or his) membership in the social group of women (or men). Fashion plays a big role in gender stereotyping. It can be harmful because in many ways it limits one’s capacity to express their unique perspective in style. In terms of career and lifestyle; people create assumptions about who a person is based on what they wear by gender stereotyping. Hostile and negative results make an individual insecure about who they are. Fashion may be different according to who cares. But regardless, it should not be used as a tool to affect anyone psychologically; which gender stereotyping does. Gender stereotyping can also promote discrimination by encouraging differential treatment, attitudes, and behaviors toward women.
What the world knows now about fashion, never use to be the norm. For example, certain colors pertaining to a specific gender; like pink being for girls and blue for boys. That’s an old-school association concluded by individuals who cared more about a person’s private attributes and less about style. Interestingly enough, the color codes for identifying gender was the opposite; boys wore pink. Leggings were also worn by males along with heels. If we look closely at traditional fashion, we discover that most styles are geared towards a very sexist classification system. Happily, there is no more separatism. Designers have embraced the new standards of fashion for this generation. More people are accepting one another for who they are; at all levels of society. They shop vintage, thrift, and high-end to express themselves to the fullest. We are free to be whoever we want and able to wear the clothes to match. Now, we can truly be individuals, and fashion is just an extension of that. The young women of today are embracing a more confident strong silhouette that is nostalgic, flattering, and easy to find. Most consider this to be masculine menswear, but really it’s just absolutely fabulous!
Let’s describe some of these stunningly cool, (a.k.a masculine) looks. The belted blazer trend consists of a large fitted men’s blazer in a classic houndstooth textile or check-ish plaid print. It is then accessorized with a wide sized belt secured with a buckle. Most men’s belts have this large decorative detail. The look cinches in at the waist, and resembles a sort of dress, with sharp prominent shoulders. Its a creative twist on the 1980’s style power suit, but no trousers. No, instead those have been replaced with leggings, short shorts, or nothing showing under the blazer. Another sexy style is the sweater vest. Women have done wonders with this clothing item. They crop it, layer it with, or wear it alone with denim. It’s also quirky with corduroy, but that textile is best suited for winter. Large button down shirts are also a sleek masculine trend. Women style them tied at the front, layered, and in different textiles; like leather. Two-band slides are trending heavily too and were considered a mans shoe. They are the alternative to the ever popular Crocs. Women are wearing the two-band slides with suits, socks, and boho inspired sundresses. The final trend worth noting, and surprisingly considered a male trend, is patchwork fabric. Yes, this style has been reworked into jackets, high-waist denim, bucket hats, and blouses. What’s considered menswear should be called ONEWEAR, because it’s the most versatile fashion around.
Fashion should be free for everyone to utilize and make their own. Gender stereotyping is no longer accepted. There are so many new styles and trends that evolve when society releases dated theories; classifying and confining them to a state of being, that is no longer respected. Gender neutral fashion is fast becoming ever present. Brands such as Telfar, Harris Reed, and Charles Jeffery Loverboy are just a few brands that create beautiful high-end gender neutral clothing. The momentum for a gender neutral fashion industry is strong, because of the people who charge the movement. Harry Styles, Pharrell, and Kid Cudi inspire change and are highly received by the masses controversially and positively. Bringing awareness to this important issue is also necessary. Collectively, people want to feel comfortable in their own skin. We should be able to decide who we are, not any factor outside of us. There is hope for a more gender friendly future, and since fashion is a big part of that change, and within our control, then there are definitely brighter days ahead.