By Mia Harding
When genderless fashion is discussed, the iconic image of the globally recognised Harry Styles (British artist) in a Gucci dress for Vogue’s cover is an example that springs to mind – proving so controversial it became international news. Gender binary is a topic that generates debate. The fashion ecosystem is currently polarised into womenswear and menswear. So how is the fashion industry tackling the issue of being more inclusive? Can the gap be bridged?
Whilst shopping both in-store and online we are asked to pick a category to define ourselves. Within fashion it is either men’s or women’s, there are limited categories in which to divide us. However, fashion is made for self-expression, a form creating our own aesthetics, yet this cannot be explored when we’re restricted by our gender.
Gender fluidity is denoting a person whose gender isn’t fixed, they identify as neither. Clothing has no gender; it shouldn’t therefore be restricted to one type of audience. A person should wear a garment because they feel comfortable in it and makes them feel good. Constraints of femininity and masculinity are moving and blurring the lines of traditional women’s and men’s wear as society pushes towards gender-fluid acceptance.
As more and more retailers are beginning to understand and accommodate to these consumer demands we hope to and are likely to see genderless fashion gain momentum.
Here are some fashion forward genderless brands to look out for:
Launched in 2018, exclusively on ASOS, Collusion is a Gen Z brands that focusses on inclusivity and is for the coming of age. They bring in creatives from their audience to work with, constantly reshaping what the brand could be. The brands ethos is to create clothing for every individual, something that everyone “can see themselves wearing”. As the brand focusses on collaboration every individual is represented, reflecting ASOS’ young audience.The first collection shaped by six inspirational creatives, its product line includes denim and knitwear.
Ijji is a genderless brand, founded in 2016. It is defined by their focus on natural fibres, unique silhouettes, and beautiful colours. The name comes from a Japanese word meaning a loose-fitting drawstring pant, reflective of the unisex collections that offers inclusive sizing. Minimalistic garments that looked borrowed from a stylish boyfriend or girlfriend forms the construct and style of the garments.
Nicopanda, Founded in 2015 by Nicola Formichetti, the award winning, acclaimed fashion designer, creative director, stylist, and editor. The ready-to-wear label bursts bold colours and prints designed and available to all. The bright playful designs bring enthusiasm, creativity, inclusivity, and diversity, celebrating what it is to be different. It’s a personal brand of style, constantly innovating with it’s hyper-creative philosophy and unique collaborations.
“it’s not for you – it’s for everyone”. Telfar Clemens is a Liberian American fashion designer, founder of the genderless label. His creations embrace and reflect his own personal style, his ready-to-wear collections, beautiful handbags, and accessories are instantly recognisable and are not restricting to gender specifics. Whatever way an individual defines themselves, his pieces are for everyone.
There is still a long way to go but the industry is celebrating diversity more than ever before. Fashion allows individuals to carve their own marks, to experiment with their identity and celebrate their uniqueness. As more creatives and brands explore this new way of perception, this type of fashion is only going to get bigger.
Image Reference
Pinterest.co.uk (2021)[Online] Available from: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/711779916101173920/ [Accessed 19/11/2021]
References
Collusion.com (2021) [Online] Available from: https://www.collusion.com [Accessed 19/11/2021]
Ijji.co (2021) [Online] Available from: https://ijji.co [Accessed 19/11/2021]
Nicopanda.com (2021) [Online] Available from: https://www.nicopanda.com [Accessed 19/11/2021]
shop.telfar.net (2021) [Online] Available from: https://shop.telfar.net [Accessed 19/11/2021]
spoiled-nation.com 