There’s no doubt about it, the cultural landscape is shifting. We’re seeing a breakdown of stereotyped gender-roles; and as is so often the case, fashion has followed suit.

Recent fashion shows were awash with gender-neutral designs; most of which smashed through conventional notions of what a man or woman should wear. It’s an exciting look, but perhaps most importantly of all, it represents greater inclusivity in the fashion world.

Here’s more information.

Why embrace gender neutral style?

It’s important to realise that gender neutral design doesn’t mean ‘non-feminine’. Slowly, designers are cottoning on to the fact that skirts and dresses can be gender-fluid too!

This style is open for all – male, female, and those who don’t identify with either. It celebrates the freedom to share a fashion experience with others, regardless of your biological make-up. No more ‘go to one floor for womenswear, the other floor for menswear’ in shops – gender neutral clothing inhabits the same space and is open to all.

On a more aesthetic note, it’s also a great style to work with. Gender-neutral clothing is often versatile, without the frustrating ‘conventions’ associated with either masculine or feminine style (the classic example is ‘pink for girls, blue for boys’).

How to incorporate gender neutral into your look

  • Remember that it doesn’t have to be beige, beige, beige. There’s a misconception that gender neutral clothing equals colourless and muted. This isn’t the case at all – many fashion designers creating these kinds of garments embrace colour to the max.
  • It doesn’t have to be shapeless. The boxy look is very on-trend right now; but that’s not the only look that’s on offer. The recent catwalks featured both men and women wearing cinched-in waists and billowing trouser-legs, while still showcasing the gender-fluid look.
  • Simplicity is the key. While gender neutral fashion occasionally incorporates patterns and stripes, it’s mostly about keeping things stripped-back and simple. There’s something effortlessly sophisticated and uncompromising about the style, which is designed to empower the wearer.
  • It should work for everyone. When you’re next about to purchase an item, ask yourself if all your friends could wear it. Would it look just as great on your father as your mother? A truly gender neutral piece of clothing works for every person.
  • Accessories shouldn’t be ignored. Simplicity doesn’t mean neglecting accessories. Streamlined handbags or rucksacks work well, minus any fussy detailing. Jewellery doesn’t have to be minimalist – you can still work statement pieces, providing there’s nothing overtly gender-specific about them. Ultimately, however, it’s your look, and fashion’s new attitude is – wear what you feel comfortable in.
  • Challenge convention. Don’t be afraid to wear something more commonly associated with the gender you don’t identify with. For example, if you identify as female, try wearing a slouchy tailored suit, or a men’s fragrance like Green Irish Tweed. Likewise, men should feel comfortable to wear more ‘traditionally feminine’ blouses or skirts over their trousers, for example.

Be brave – it’s your body!

Ultimately, how you choose to dress is entirely your decision. That’s what’s welcome about the rise of gender neutral fashion – it’s a refusal to conform to stereotyped notions of how women or men should dress.