All About Androgyny

Armani



Androgyny, by definition is having both male and female characteristics. In fashion the term is used for masculine looks and clothing styles inspired by men's wear. Following on from yesterday's post, (and my case of mistaken sexuality) I've decided to highlight a little androgyny for you all and explain why I, like so many others, believe that many a woman's wardrobe could do with some of it.

An article on 'The Urban Twist' wrote the following about this trend, 'Androgyny thrives on the message of individualism which appeals to those who want an excuse to rebel as well as those who just want to be appreciated for just being different. The recurrence of this trend should not be a surprise as history often repeats itself.' So a little androgyny can never really be out of style. I like the idea of not only dressing this way to be different, but being able to play at both ends of the spectrum and the emotion and image this can create. My main reason for loving 'masculine' fashion is the power it gives an outfit. A silent power, as if to say, 'Beneath all this is a vulnerable woman, you'll  need to break through this tough exterior to get to her though.' It's a kind of cover up that's intriguingly sexy. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that a woman dressed with just the right amount of androgyny is at her most sexy. It's the outwardly opposite positioning of feminine against masculine that in reacting plays up the femininity and if done right exposes and promotes it.

So here is my collection of the best way to do androgyny for now, and my fave pics from the past, as we wouldn't want to forget where it all began..

Gucci Spring 2012 - I die over a 'men's' tailored pant

While Gucci does a more sexy version of androgyny, Paul Smith showed a different approach for Fall/Winter 2011/2012.

To the left are details from the Armani Fall/Winter collection. Note the masculinity of the fedora, and neck detailing and structured jackets, done with a feminine edge. We'll skip past the 'Amelia Earhart 101' to the right. The white tailored suit.. Perfection!

It's not always about an entire look. Pick out one piece like these tuxedo pants but pair it with a more feminine shirt and bright clutch if all-out androgyny is not for you.

Marlene Dietrich German-American actress known for her androgynous style. One of my fave quotes from her is this, 'I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men.'

Helmut Newton's iconic 1975 photo of 'Le smoking'. This is where it all began. Designed by Yves Saint-Laurent in 1966, this tuxedo suit for women was the first of it's kind and pioneered the way for power suits and androgynous styles for women.

Stay fabulous fashionistas!

xoxo

Melissa Jane