Androgyny is a concept that has long been embraced by the masses and pop culture. The blend of feminine flair and masculine boldness, thus creating the sexual ambiguity the world has become infatuated with today. Yet, why have we become so enamored by it? In a fashion perspective, we no longer live under strict rules of what women/men should and shouldn’t wear. There are no boundries! Ever since women began wearing pants in the 19th century, which at first caused a stir in society as it went against accepted dress codes for women, fashion for women has become limitless. There always seems to be some kind of influence of menswear in female’s fashion collections, whether they are today’s quintessential boyfriend blazer, tailored men’s suits for women, or slicked back hair. So in retrospect, there should also traces of femininity in men’s collections, recently denim tube tops were showcased on the runway, as were sequined halter-tops and dramatic makeup. Fashion has become experimental, merging the boundaries of menswear and womenswear- integrating gender stricken garments. Yves Saint Laurent has already designed various unisex collections; remember the Le Smoking tuxedo suit?
(Coutorture)
For decades women have been dressing down and adopting more masculine attire. Previously, it was more due to mannerisms and behavior, feminism and lesbianism for example. Women used androgyny to empower themselves, for they were viewed as the weaker sex, subsequently making an emphasis on stereotypes and proving them wrong. Only today has the androgynous look been considered more of a fashion trend than a cultural statement. It seems as if our obsession with androgyny is based upon the ability to freely express and explore sexuality- both our own and the opposite. Fashion enables this freedom for us.
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