The Tip Jar #6: How to Borrow from Menswear
A Women’s Guide to Shopping Menswear, Featuring the Best Brands for Every Budget and Style
Your favorite part of the month, The Tip Jar, is back! Last month, we built a versatile shoe collection with just three essential pairs.
This month, you’re in for a treat—no matter your style preferences. In less than 24 hours, two subscribers came to me with nearly the same dilemma.
Reader #1 lives in oversized vintage men’s tees from Target six days a week. She craves cleaner patterns and textures but struggles to find affordable women’s brands that nail the look—without drowning in fabric.
Reader #2 works for a European luxury fashion company but finds the women’s selection too whimsical. She wants sleek, sophisticated designs in classic colors but doesn’t want to blend into the sea of Khaite, The Row, or Loro Piana—let alone spend a paycheck on a single piece.
These conversations aren’t new—especially in a world where fashion knows no gender rules. Take a look at this Reddit thread, where women are flocking to Pharrell’s men’s collections at Louis Vuitton. The demand for menswear pieces with a refined edge is stronger than ever. Instead of browsing your usual fashion sites or heading straight to your go-to brands, why not switch things up? Look for inspiration in sections you might normally overlook.
The Affordable Aisle
I haven’t stepped into a Zara in YEARS because I often feel like every other woman on the subway wearing the same thing. A flock of sheep heading to the office. However, a quick detour to the Men’s section will completely change your mindset. They’ve got unique textures and sleek, classic pieces with a twist. The small sizes might be a bit oversized, but that’s part of the charm. Pair them with some feminine accessories, and you’re good to go. The best part? The pricing. You’ll probably want to grab it all.
A clean and simple ringer Striped Knit T-Shirt could be paired with any outfit.
Obsessed (is an understatement) with these Splatter Parachute Pants. The elastic waist makes sizing a breeze if you're unsure how they’ll translate to your usual fit.
Snag this Pocket Denim Jacket for an interesting take on the classic Chore Jacket.
This Plain Tote Bag is sleek and the secret MVP to your outfit.
Top off the final fit with all the feminine details from the Women’s section: Heart Necklace, Pearl Hoop Earrings, and Flat Fisherman Sandals
The Attainable Edit
When you want something that feels a little more elevated but still within reach, Aimee Leon Dore should be your go-to. Their pieces are polished, effortless, and perfect for a wardrobe upgrade without breaking the bank. The outerwear, polos, and accessories exude sophistication with a modern, timeless appeal. At a slightly higher price point than Zara, yet still attainable, these essentials are done right and worth a peek. Their styles bring a refined touch to an everyday look.
The key ingredients for an All-American weekend vibe include the WINDSTOPPER® Top Coat paired with a vibrant Jacquard Snap Pullover.
This outfit looks great with the Core Logo Hat and Small Unisphere Tote Bag.
For a dash of femininity grab this Striped Poplin Skirt and Remy Sandals.
The Aspirational Lookbook
If money were endless and guilt wasn’t a factor, I'd look no further than Tom Ford, Gucci, The Row, and Hermes. While my go-to would always be a ladies’ handbag, I can’t help but be delighted by the men’s department showcasing the pinnacles of luxury, craftsmanship, and effortless elegance. The price tags are out of reach for everyone, but the allure is something you can't ignore. We can all dream, right?
You’ll ooze luxury dripping in this Bruno Lofty Brushed Cashmere Sweater,
The perfect companions consist of this Carrick A Pomp Scarf 45 attached to this Canvas Tote Bag Embossed Detail.
The Padlock Pointy Sandals are a dream, even if they’re more of a fantasy than a reality. Pair it best with this matching Padlock Chain Necklace.
A Walk to the Other Side
Borrowing from menswear can be a game-changer. Whether it's affordable, elevated, or aspirational pieces, menswear offers endless versatility. From oversized fits to structured jackets, the key is finding what resonates with your style and making it uniquely you. Break the rules, play with the details, and experiment. There's now a whole new side of your wardrobe worth exploring.
For more menswear inspo, check out these Substack gems:
- has curated the perfect list of menswear brands leading the charge in infusing fresh energy into the consumer space. Their perspective spotlights how these brands showcase their creativity in innovative and exciting ways. A must-read!
- from recently shared a vulnerable post about how motherhood shifted her style, leading her to embrace simplicity and menswear for a more practical, no-frills wardrobe.
The
recently featured and his take on how men’s outerwear offers a plethora of stylish, versatile options for women, along with key styling tips to make it work.
Great looks and menswear inspo - my fave! Love the yellow quarter zip and striped skirt!
That yellow pullover!! all of it! and with the touch of femininity to balance the menswear. Loved the read and will be raiding my husbands closet!