What To Buy From The Menswear Department
Oxford Shirts
Why: Ask any woman in the know and a boyfriend fit shirt will probably be in her top ten wardrobe must-haves. While there are plenty of womenswear brands offering the relaxed look, reaching for a men’s cut can often save you time and money – as well as offering you more options. Influencer and menswear lover, Louisa Hatt, agrees: “I love buying menswear shirts as there’s often a greater range of colour and fabrics to choose from – plus, they always feel and look more effortless.”
What to remember: Menswear shirts are mostly longer in the body and come with a longer sleeve length, too, which although useful, can risk drowning you if you’re on the petite side. To avoid that, roll up the sleeves and French tuck the shirt at the front to create a more feminine look.
Knitwear
Why: Often, womenswear jumpers are either slim-fitting or significantly oversized, so opting for a men’s sweater, particularly in fine-knit styles, can be the ideal in-between option.
What to remember: M&S has one of the most affordable – not to mention highest quality – cashmere selections on the high street, while the SL fashion swears by British brand Sunspel for timeless knitwear, too. Stick to your usual size to get a slightly oversized look, or go one bigger for added slouch.
T-Shirts
Why: Opting for simple men’s styles is the easiest way to avoid buying tees that are too skin-tight or with sleeves that are too short.
What to remember: Stick to a scoop neck, as men’s v-neck styles aren’t generally deep enough to be flattering on female bodies. The high street has plenty to offer when it comes to great, affordable mens’ tees – we recommend Arket, Cos and Reiss – just pay attention to the fabric composition (100% cotton is ideal) to ensure they keep their shape for longer.
Denim Shirts
Why: Denim shirts never go out of style, but much like an oxford shirt, you want to avoid anything too form fitting. We love a men’s denim shirt – particularly as a layering piece, and in a boxier fit. Either wear something layered underneath, or wear it on its own with the sleeves rolled up – just add straight jeans for a cool double-denim look.
What to remember: Lighter wash styles will always feel a little more feminine than indigos, but don’t be afraid to try them – just balance darker washes with a white jean or a feminine heeled boot. We recommend Ralph Lauren and GAP for some of the best men’s designs.
Sweatshirts & Hoodies
Why: There are few things worse than a hoodie or sweatshirt that’s too small. Opting for a men’s hoodie will nail that desired slouchy fit and from basic styles to cool slogans, there’s plenty to choose from out there.
What to remember: Generally speaking, you probably won’t need to size up here as a men’s small will probably equate to a woman’s medium or large, so stick to your usual size to achieve the desired look. If you’re worried about looking too slovenly, just add a smarter piece, like a classic trench, over the top to elevate the look.
Boxers
Why: As the warmer months approach, a men’s boxer makes a cool alternative to pyjama bottoms for lounging at home. Just add a boyfriend shirt or boxy sweatshirt for a laidback feel.
What to remember: If you’re more bottom heavy, size up to accommodate as men’s hip measurements tend to be narrower.
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