It's a Man's World

Girls Will Be Boys by Robinson Maynes featuring slip on shoes

This fall, it’s all about going back into the closet. His closet that is. Beginning as long ago as the 1930’s, borrowing items from menswear is nothing new for women; it is actually considered a classic look by some. Having reemerged each decade following, no one can deny that this effortless style statement has staying power.

In our everyday dress, it has become much more acceptable to wear black leather jackets or pants, studded bags or jewelry, or even worn jersey tees without portraying the image of a “trouble maker.” Keeping that in mind, it is very fresh look to pair menswear items like blazers and a studded bag, or use the blazer to layer over a jersey top. Another way to merge this edgy-menswear look is to wear a nice wool hat, or even throwing a scarf over a cropped pant suit for a more urban feel. Layering on studded bangles can also finish any of these looks.

For a directional look, embrace this season’s assortment of thigh high boots by wearing them with a boy fit blazer and mini skirt. Not only will you be incorporating several trends at once, but you will be creating continuity in your look, building one piece of the outfit on the other. This look is sexy and sophisticated, while also making a statement.

Perhaps the simplest way of incorporating masculine aspects into your wardrobe is with your accessory choices. Shoes often have the ability to change the entire mood of an outfit, without the help of much else. Flat or heeled oxfords look great with skirts and shorts, creating a nod to menswear without much effort. Loafers require a bit more work, however. Alexander Wang has black loafers in his collection this season, and although they are quite amazing, they require additional thought. If you’re going this route, I suggest cropped pants or jeans because there is something about showing the ankles that keep the loafers subdued. Wide trousers can work as well, but should be contrasted with other feminine aspects. Handbags also have the ability to alter the mood of an entire outfit, when styled correctly. Structured handbags in suiting material, or wool felt, can add impact to an outfit you already have in your closet, while keeping you on trend. Finally, an oversized watch, any metal, can be an affordable way to accent your fall wardrobe with a touch of masculinity.

These lucid concepts should give the clarity to welcome this reoccurring trend, and ultimately give the men a run for their money. It’s time to take charge of board room, and adopt the style of your sexual opposition. Who knew menswear could make women look so good?

Runway Report: Alexander Wang S/S 2011

Ethereal white fabrics graced the bodies of frail models as the Alexander Wang S/S 2011 show began to a promising start. Instantly noticeable was how was the loose fit pieces still had a tough edge to them, perhaps thanks to the bondage inspired straps on some of the garments.


Suddenly, splashes of silver and copper metallic leaf added immediate interest to the white, monochromatic ensembles.


A stunning silver and taupe obi belt, surprised me as it was paired with an ill-fitted, chunky sweater.


The pendulum swung back again, and simple, monochromatic looks appeared. As the colors continued to evolve, however, one could not help but to observe how much the metallic accents resembled the metallic scales on the classic children’s book “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister. As some of us remember, towards the end of the book, the rainbow fish gives most of his metallic scales away so that he can share his beauty with the other sea creatures.



The sculptural vests and blazers contrasted against the softness of other layered pieces, which is understandable since this juxtaposition between structure and fluidity are what Alex is known for. It was quite interesting to watch as there wasn’t a set garment that was continually repeated. Rather, tops and bottoms alternated continually with various shapes and lengths, being mostly only connected through the similar fabrication and color scheme.


I did appreciate the finale look, as I could see it as a red carpet look for a more forward thinking starlet.


Although there were unique piecing and seaming techniques used on many of the garments, the overall collection lacked a sense of innovation apparent in earlier collections. Even the laced ankle boots worn on almost every model in the show, looked like countless shoes that have been continually reproduced seasons past. The clothes were wearable, and a departure from what we would expect to see from Alex, but perhaps this wasn’t a direction he should follow. Coming from the designer who created the iconic “Rocco Bag,” one would expect more progression.