Unisex apparel describes clothing that can be worn by both men and women.
History
The term “unisex” appeared in the 1960s, even though, throughout history there have been many cultures that had developed unisex clothing. One of the biggest unisex pieces of clothing of the 20th century were the blue jeans, which led to a certain homogenization of clothing and a clothing barrier blur. As women started wearing more and more men’s clothes in the 20th century, now we see another type of sexual revolution, as more and more men tend to wear clothes insipired by designs that were originally made for women.
However, unisex clothing does not mean women wearing men’s clothes and vice-versa, but it refers to clothes that have not been polarized to one part or another and that can be worn by both men and women. This being said, it’s hard not to look at least a little androgynous when wearing unisex clothes, as they were not made for a specific gender.
Who should wear unisex clothes
Unisex clothes are perfect for anyone who wishes to express his/her androgynous side or who is simply trying to do something different than what he/she has done so far.
Gender non-specific clothes are also great for children in two instances: first, if you are expecting to have a baby and you do not know what gender it will be, you can opt for unisex clothes, and second, if your child is older, but you don’t want to force him/her into a gender archetype (boys in blue, girls in pink and with a lot of lace).
Tilda Swinton usually rocks unisex clothes.
How to buy unisex clothes
Shirts
When it comes to shirts, unisex pieces are usually made after the men’s size guide, so women should look for smaller sizes than the ones that fit them in the lady’s department. Also, make sure you check the neckline and collar. Men’s shirts usually have higher necklines and collars that are tighter than those found on women’s shirts. Women should expect unisex shirt to fit loosely around the upper back and shoulders.
Even though this is not a rule, most unisex shirts or jackets will have the buttons on the left side.
Wear it like a man… or woman.
Pants
When purchasing unisex clothes, you should keep in mind that your probably not going to find well-fitted items. Unisex pants for example are mostly sweatpants or pants made from a fabric with a high level of elasticity. However, if you buy pants that are made from a fabric that is not very elastic, you should evaluate the inseam measurement. The inseam refers to the total length of the pants as measured from the crotch to the end of the leg. Getting pants with the right inseam will ensure their fit. If you are unsure of your measurements, go to a tailor or ask a family member for help.
Outwear
It’s probably easiest to buy unisex outwear, since unisex jackets and hoodies are widely available to consumers.
When you buy unisex pieces, keep in mind that you might be tricked by the size. This is why you should try them on or convert the measurements. There is no standard “human size”, so this is why you always need to check the size, and transform it. Note that standard sizes change from time to time, so it’s best to always try things on and keep what fits your body! Don’t forget that you can always ask a tailor to modify your clothes as you choose.
Unisex clothing is clothing that can be equally worn by men and women, not men’s clothes worn by women or vice-versa.
Shoes and accessories
When it comes to accessorizing, there is a very wide range of products out there that you can buy. If it’s chains, bracelets, or anything else, very simple things are usually the best. Belts are the most widespread unisex accessory, but you have to be careful with the sizing guide. As we said, trying it on is the best way to go.
When it comes to shoes, these are usually scaled for either men or women, so make sure they fit you right. Size conversions differ from brand to brand, so look up a size conversion chart which should be offered by the manufacturer of the shoe you wish to purchase. It may also be necessary to convert shoes from U.S. to European sizes.
Conclusions
The issue with unisex clothes is that they will inevitably give you an androgynous look, as they are not made for either the woman’s body or the male body. So, if you are trying to emphasize your v-shape as a guy or your waistline as a woman, unisex clothes might not necessary be the way to go, unless you are in the presence of somebody of the other gender who is wearing the same thing: then the differences will be really visible.
P.S. What do you think of unisex clothes? Do you like to wear them or do you prefer clothes tailored for your gender? What do you make of people who always tend to wear unisex clothes? Share your comments with the community in the space below!
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