The fashion world has long celebrated the elegance and versatility of menswear, especially when adapted by women. From Hollywood icons to contemporary celebrities, the trend of incorporating traditionally male attire into feminine wardrobes continues to captivate audiences. This article explores how influential women have embraced these styles over the decades, from Marlene Dietrich's pioneering suits in the 1940s to modern-day stars like Yseult and Victoria Beckham. Each era brings new interpretations, but the charm remains timeless.
In the heart of Paris on September 30, 2024, French singer-songwriter Yseult made a striking appearance at the Balenciaga womenswear S/S 2025 show. Adorned in a dramatic floor-length duster jacket with padded shoulders and raw edges, she paired it with leather trousers and black sunglasses. Her look was completed with sparkling diamond jewelry and metallic lips, creating a perfect blend of edginess and femininity. Yseult’s outfit exemplifies the bold and innovative spirit of modern menswear-inspired fashion.
Journeying back to January 2019, Victoria Beckham showcased her impeccable taste during London Fashion Week. She stepped out in a grey suit with wide-leg trousers and a structured blazer, complemented by a salmon-toned ruffled blouse. Victoria, who draws inspiration from her husband David Beckham, emphasized balance by adding feminine touches such as ruffles and heels. Her style reflects both sophistication and comfort, proving that menswear can be effortlessly chic.
Ashley Olsen, co-founder of The Row, attended the YES 20th Anniversary Gala in Los Angeles on September 23, 2021, wearing an all-black ensemble. Her look featured a buttoned-up top and a long tuxedo jacket, accented with minimalist hoop earrings and sleek hair. The Row, named after Savile Row, a street renowned for men’s tailoring, embodies the essence of tailored elegance. Ashley’s outfit highlights the brand’s commitment to classic menswear silhouettes while maintaining a distinct feminine allure.
Bianca Jagger, a lifelong advocate of menswear, attended a Dior dinner in London in May 2024. She wore an off-white suit with black accents, including buttons, a bow tie, and gloves. Bianca’s red lipstick and oversized pearl earrings added a touch of softness to her tailored outfit. Her ability to transform masculine pieces into her own signature style has made her a timeless muse for this trend.
Elle Fanning, promoting the film “A Complete Unknown” in November 2024, embraced a fully masculine silhouette with an oversized grey suit. Paired with a red striped button-down shirt and black loafers, her look was both deliberate and sharp. By keeping accessories minimal and her hair pulled back, Elle highlighted the power and simplicity of menswear-inspired fashion.
From the glamorous runways of Paris to the red carpets of Hollywood, these women have redefined what it means to wear menswear. Their choices not only reflect personal style but also challenge traditional gender norms in fashion.
As we observe these iconic moments in fashion history, it becomes clear that menswear offers more than just a stylistic choice; it represents a form of self-expression and empowerment. These women have shown us that fashion is fluid and that borrowing from the opposite side of the closet can lead to some of the most memorable looks. Whether through structured suits or oversized jackets, they remind us that confidence and creativity are key to making any piece our own. This trend invites everyone to explore their individuality and redefine what fashion means to them.