Borrowed From The Boys

Women wearing a masculine style of clothing isnt anything new. The combination of something light and feminine with a surprising twist is exciting and appealing in womenswear. Its rebelling against the system; forcing stereotypical fashion in the opposite direction.

You may not be aware of this, but the multi gendered look started back in the 1930's and was made famous by fashion icons such as Katherine Hepburn who opted for daring masculine fashion choices and thus creating a tailored feminine look. Gender stereotypes have taken a huge back seat in the past decade, with women wearing items that once had association with the 'powerful man' and the help of women's rights enabling women to be perceived as equals. Men in recent years have also begun to wear the colour pink within their outfits, something which is largely recognised as a 'feminine colour'. 

It wasn't until the early 70's that the first women's brogue was created and even so, still wasn't included in the day to day wear of women. As society has become more and more open minded and women are becoming more vocal on want they want (think Emma Watson's speech a few weeks ago and who can forget Chanel's Spring/Summer '15 finale, staging a huge women's rights protest clad head to toe in Chanel and featuring the likes of Cara Delevingne, Georgia Jagger, Kendall Jenner and Gisele!) theres now nothing women can't wear that men do!

Model of the moment Cara Delevingne is a great example of someone who often rebels against the feminine ideals of fashion resulting in outfit choices that shouldn't work but just do! Often seen out and about London in bomber jackets, woollen bobble hats and her latest out there ensemble for a Burberry event, wearing a tuxedo style suit with trainers! Another memorable outfit includes the velvet Emilio Pucci tux jacket that she wore as a dress to a Vogue dinner to mark the end of fashion week. This is a girl who isn't scared to experiment and dares to be different - have a go yourself!

Blazing Glory

Balancing feminine, flirty and masculine elements all in the space of one look is easy. Try smartening up a casual outfit with a sharp, tailored blazer in a feminine colour or print after deciding on the style you want to go for. For example, a smart tailored look would work best with skinny trousers or jeans and a pair of brogues, whereas a country inspired look would work best with skinnys and a pair of boots. For office wear, try a blazer over a shift dress with tights and court shoes for a powerful look. Dutch brand Maison Scotch are the go to brand for all types of blazers, with their oversized fits and adorned with Jacquard prints and this season's Houndstooth design over relaxed cotton jersey blazers. Michael Kors offer masculine style blazers with added feminine features such as a belted waist or gold studded embellishment. For another alternative look, Barbour present a British countryside appeal. Their Nutwell Blazer is a favourite each A/W season and offers a flattered, feminine shape within a tweed like material. The country look is added further with details such as the suedette neckline, front pockets and a horse printed lining designed by British designer Emily Bond.

Longer Length Tuxedo Blazer by Maison Scotch
Nutwell Blazer by Barbour Lifestyle
Boxy Blazer by Michael Kors

Tough Love

The Barbour International range have been inspired by the British motorcycling heritage. Taking their styles from the iconic 'biker look' including large deep pockets and tough waxed and tweed materials combined with feminine features such as the belted waist so that the jacket can be cinched in to create the feminine shape as well as further detailing such as faux fur trimming around the collar and hoods.

Crayford Jacket
Wax Jacket
Grindleford Quilt
All by Barbour International

Stepping Out

Chunky boots and flat leather brogues are fast becoming a winter staple in a girl's wardrobe. This season will see Timberland and Caterpillar boots be paired with chunky knits, adding a cool factor to the outfit. 
Brogues have always been a piece of formalwear to accompany a smart outfit but now they've become versatile enough to be paired with anything from skinny jeans to dresses. A great alternative to the standard flat dolly shoes, a pair of brogues add a quirky touch to a girly ensemble.
The Dr Martens Castel Boot is a great example of a feminine twist on a masculine item. Dr Martens have long been a favourite with British subcultures and those that wish to add a strong definition to a look, embracing a 'fashion with attitude' approach to their outfit. The association with the punk era has led the boot to become a favourite with individuals who wish to rebel in the norms of society as the brand continue to represent non-conformity and self expression. Wear the Castel with black skinny jeans and a leather look jacket for a fun, casual outfit.

Colorado Boot by Cat
Charlie Brogue Shoes by J Shoes
Castel Boot by Dr Martens