5 Ways to Build a Minimalist Unisex Wardrobe
In an article for WWD, author Obi Anyanwu writes about the future of fashion and how genderless outfits are expected to be paramount to the future of the industry. In the article, Anyanwu states that “Phluid Project founder Rob Smith said at the WWD Culture Conference in November that 56 percent of Generation Z consumers shop “outside their assigned gendered area,” meaning that unisex wardrobes are becoming more and more popular.
The writer notes that certain brands have even created gender-neutral lines of clothing so people don’t have to decide between just two options of clothing—the traditional, men’s and women’s lines. If you’re looking to lean into this trend and build a minimalist unisex wardrobe, you’re in luck. Here’s how to do just that.
Start With a Pair of Jeans
A good pair of jeans is a great starting place for every person’s wardrobe, whether they’re male, female, or non-binary. Get yourself a pair of jeans (whether that’s women’s jeans or men’s jeans to start your unisex wardrobe. Get a pair that fits you well in a rise and cut you’ll be excited to put on.
From there, you can get jeans in different styles — ripped jeans, black jeans, cropped jeans, white jeans...the options are nearly endless — to complement your unisex closet.
Get a Few Good Button-Down Tops
Button-down shirts are good for many situations—a day in the office, a dressy brunch, after-work drinks, baby showers, and more. Button-down shirts are a staple for all wardrobes. In an article by Ellen Ricks on Byrdie.com, it’s noted that “a button-down shirt is a must-have item in every closet, regardless of your typical style. While a button-down, like a crisp oxford or a silky blouse, may seem basic, it’s actually one of the most versatile items in your closet because it can be worn in so many ways.”
As the article states, the style of shirt can vary from classic white button-down shirts that look great underneath a women’s or men’s blazer to bright, patterned button-down tops that go well with a pair of structured chino capri pants. While you’re at it, get yourself a button-down chambray shirt to tuck into a pair of black pants or white jeans, or a flannel button-down to wear in the chilly months. Button-down shirts come in an array of styles, so there's sure to be perfect for you.
Get a Blazer
A classic blazer is great for both men and women. It can be worn over a button-down top (as mentioned before) for a dressed-up look or over a plain V-neck t-shirt for a casual yet cool look that’s perfect for an after-work happy hour. For your gender-neutral wardrobe, get yourself a blazer or two in colors like black, gray, or navy. Make sure you get yourself a comfy blazer, though, you don’t want to be stuck in an uncomfortable outfit!
Invest in Cashmere
Cashmere is one of those fabrics that's timeless, classic, and totally gender-neutral when worn as a V-neck sweater, a crewneck, or a button-front cardigan. Get yourself a few cashmere sweater options in neutral colors to wear with your trusty jeans or with a pair of dress pants. You’ll easily be able to wear your cashmere items throughout the winter months as part of your unisex wardrobe.
Stick to Neutral Colors
It’s no secret that there’s sexism in colors. “There is a double bind that exists with what we call the “blue versus pink stereotype” that is driving gender inequality,” states Shelley Zalis, a contributor for Forbes Women. For generations, blue has been known as a “boy’s color” while pink has been known as a “girl’s color.” Unfortunately, this stereotype still exists today. The best way to create a gender-neutral wardrobe is to select non-gendered colors like cream, grey, white, black, green, and red when creating a unisex wardrobe. It’s unfair that colors are used to determine someone’s gender, but, sadly it's still the reality.
That being said, though—if you’re the kind of person who really wants to wear a bright pink button-down top, don’t let antiquated rules around colors stop you! All in all, neutral colors help achieve a minimalist look, but there’s no reason not to have a few pops of color in your closet.
When creating a unisex wardrobe, focus on staple pieces that are present in everyone’s wardrobes—jeans, button-down shirts, plain T-shirts, blazers, and things of the sort. With just those simple pieces, you’ll have what you need for a classic, unisex wardrobe.