Clothing distributors like American Apparel are super supportive of androgynous dressing. I must admit that I am a fan of it. I think it takes a certain type of man to pull off a skirt well, and it takes a certain type of female to wear a men’s suit well. I am not at all saying that men need to go out and buy skirts now. I’m just suggesting the close-minded nature of society, how we identify items of clothing with gender, and how much people fear/reject things that are different.
Having seen a male in a skirt most people, including my mother, immediately thought WTF?? Am I right? Where was there ever a rule that stated men who are not transgender or drag queens cannot where skirts? Why are heavily feminine women afraid to throw on a men’s suit and make it look diva? The androgynous dress, in my biased opinion, is not a cry for attention or to be different but is instead done by people who are comfortable enough with themselves to set aside gender stereotypes and agree with Gore Vidal in saying “Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn”.
The Hip Hop duo The New Boyz proudly brought back the skinny jeans trend that NWA, Grand Master Flash and The Furious 5, as well as others that have come before them “rocked” without a problem but the minute these young boys defied the current “norm” it became an issue. The young artist Teyana Taylor used to wear baggy jeans like it was no problem, then the uproar began about her being a lesbian, since then, be it personal choice or choice of those who represent her, her style has become feminine, according to societal views. By that I mean fitted clothing, tight short dresses, and items that accentuate her curves, every now and then throwing on a pair of Jordan sneakers because she feels comfortable in them.
It’s beautiful to see that fashion is pulling for people to become more open-minded. Some may have seen Katie Holmes and Halle Berry in the boyfriend jean. Here’s a tip: it’s comfortable, ladies. Feel free to throw on a suit and add feminine details like chunky gold jewelry (no costume jewelry) like a necklace or bracelet. Men, I’m not saying go and buy skirts nor am I saying everyone should try it because everyone won’t look right in it. I am saying, don’t be afraid to let your pants fit a bit snug if it complements the Hi-Top sneaker you just bought. Step out of what society deems normal and acceptable and do as you please in whatever you feel most comfortable.