How To Enjoy This Spring/Summer with The Unisex Fashion Trend
Text by Laraib Meeshal
The fashion industry loves to label the unisex fashion trend as groundbreaking and revolutionary for its unique edge and distinct aesthetic. But let’s burst that bubble right from the start—unisex fashion has been around since the mid-1960s.
The term “unisex” is a portmanteau word, a blend of “universal” and “sex,” representing the concept of gender-neutral clothing. It gained traction during the 1970s when social movements challenged traditional gender roles.
Many designers, including Mary Quant and Yves Saint Laurent, have contributed to promoting inclusivity and breaking down gender barriers in fashion through unisex clothing that blurs the lines between masculine and feminine aesthetics.
From the androgynous chic of David Bowie to the inclusive, gender-fluid designs of Vivienne Westwood, unisex fashion has always been a prominent and timeless expression in the fashion industry.
Today, unisex fashion continues to evolve, celebrating diverse body types and individuality beyond gender norms and societal expectations—Because the idea of being classically beautiful is finally changing where the more unique and edgy you are, the more they love you!
As we explore the unisex spring/summer style in NYC as a timeless expression of individuality and sustainability, let’s strut through some of the basic guidelines to spruce your style up.
Mix ‘n’ Match
You can never go wrong with the mix ‘n’ match trend, can you?
One of the most versatile and creative ways to showcase your style is by mixing and matching patterns and colors in your outfits.
Who said unisex or gender-neutral clothing has to be typical, mundane, and boring? Not us!
Create head-turning looks in unisex style with patterns, prints, and colors for unique looks that transcend gender norms.
However, the key to achieving the mix ‘n’ match trend is creating the right balance. Combine bold patterns with subtle ones to add an oomph factor. Plaid skirts with solid-colored chinos or jeans would totally look snatched without going overboard.
For the colors, always choose a neutral base, including black, white, or gray, and go for a dominant pattern or color to stand out. Ideally, choose accessories that define your style to create your own signature look.
The trick is to style without boundaries and keep the subtle blend of colors and patterns seemingly intact.
Play with colors
Incorporating colors into your wardrobes is one of the most exhilarating yet challenging experiences. Because most people, while designing their unisex outfits, come face-to-face with a sea of neutrals; black, beige, navy, or white.
Frankly enough, many brands interpret gender-neutral clothing as boring and usually end up adding colors devoid of any characteristics, such as gray, olive green, and black.
The science behind color mixing does not only involve colors, but it’s the ideal combination of color, patterns, and fit that make up a fashionable outfit.
Here are some easy-to-apply rules you can put into effect in your own outfits to get that edgy look.
- Avoid mixing two bold colors that aren’t complementary
- Bold prints and patterns should have anything neutral to neutralize them
- Never go for an overload of patterns, especially the same one in an outfit (Cheetah print shirt, leggings, heels, umbrella)—a definite no-no
- Use dark and light variations of one color to blend your outfit beautifully
- Mix textures, such as satin with knits to add depth to your outfits
- Avoid donning two hues in equal proportion to give your outfit an impression of a uniform. The rule is to use 75% of one color and 25% of the other.
Accessorize, Accessorize, and Accessorize some more
When it comes to accessories, the sky’s the limit.
A simple plain white T-shirt can be elevated by the use of the right accessories that may include a gold bracelet, sunglasses, gold or silver chains, and earrings. Try pairing your white T-shirts and dresses with a nice pair of sunglasses and a funky hat to create the most dramatic look.
Accessories add a personal style and flair to your daily outfits because they add a visual interest and make a bold statement. Whether it’s a watch, chunky statement necklace, playful scarf, or a fancy waist belt, the accessories you wear reflect your personality while enhancing the overall appearance.
You can even style the same dress in different ways with the power of accessories. For example, a plain black dress with a V-neckline can be worn in various ways for different seasons.
Winters: Pair it up with a printed shawl or blazer and knee-length boots. Accessorize it with pearl or gold earrings, a black or bold-colored tote bag, knit hat gloves, and a gold or black drop necklace to create a perfect winter night unisex outfit.
Summers: Go easy on the accessories! A simple drop necklace, camel leather sandals, perfect pedicure and nail polish with a floral pattern tote bag around the shoulder, and small hoop earrings would elevate your simple dress into something chic and stylish.
Comfort over anything
All clothes are unisex if you are confident and comfortable enough. Therefore, styling should never come at the expense of your comfort.
You can flaunt the laid-back vibes of spring with breezy fabrics, floral prints, relaxed silhouettes, oversized shirts, and lightweight trousers, or you can go savage with bold prints, colors, and fit, even when the temperature rises.
Ultimately, it’s your confidence that outshines everything being the sexiest piece of accessory you’ll ever own.
Wear local, support local
New York City is home to many local businesses that champion unisex fashion with a unique blend of quirky and classy.
As we enter the new season with style, let’s appreciate and support some of the local fashion brands that prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity with their ethical production practices.
Here are a few handpicked NYC brands: