Style Benchmark
The concept of functional fashion for the fairer sex took hold in the 1920s. The common goal of suffrage emboldened women to reject the suffering of restrictive corsets. In the 1970s, Revlon's "Charlie girl" redefined work-wear, popularizing pantsuits over the pencil skirts of sixties fashion.
The power suit, complete with shoulder pads and bow tie, defined the professional wardrobe of the 1980s, as evidenced by Melanie Griffith's ladder-climbing secretary in 1988's "Working Girl." By the early 90s, that exaggerated silhouette was dated, and sharp tailoring became the hallmark of the lady executive.
Today's menswear look borrows elements from a handful of eras. The trouser of the 1970s, the softer lines of the 1990s, sometimes even the corsetry of the early 1900s.
Designer and tastemaker Rachel Roy seamlessly integrates both masculine and feminine elements into her look. Inherently androgynous separates (trousers, a button-front shirt) get an unexpectedly feminine twist from sumptuous fabrics and soft draping. Layering delicate necklaces and choosing a soft, natural hairstyle lends the look a graceful ease.
While styling a flawless ensemble will probably never be as easy for us as it is for the fellas, it will always be more fun.
Channel Rachel Roy's casual elegance with one of the looks below.
Style like you mean it.
"In an age where it seems like anything goes, it is no surprise that androgynous looks are trending. Master this style by pairing structured tops with trouser pants and a classic oxford shoe." -Ensemble styled by Lisa Karst
"A boxy, structured button-up paired with cropped slacks and fabulous statement pieces gives this menswear ensemble a chic and feminine twist." -Ensemble styled by Naree Kim
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