Under $100 Menswear

Ever since Marlene Dietrich shocked the world by assuming a tuxedo in the 1930 film Morocco, women have been merrily appropriating men's attire to great effects. The once taboo practice of sporting a fellow's threads is at an all-time high this fall, thanks to designer and celebrity support of blazers, fancy pants, briefcases, and more! Considering our own preference for looking like we've raided a guy's closet (usually via Jenni Kayne's Boyfriend Shirt ($355), one of our current wardrobe favorites), we very much enjoyed determining the perfect pieces that will allow you to mix a little masculinity into your own outfits. We know your budgets are probably in a bare bones state right now,so we sleuthed out the best in boyswear for $100 or less.



If you're in need of a modern-day muse who masters androgynous style, look no further than Irina Lazareanu, as she fearlessly and frequently accomplishes masculine get-ups with astonishing grace. While Lazareanu's tweed blazer and baggy pant combos are highly admirable, we're not implying that you have to dress like a boy from head-to-toe in order to incorporate menswear into your wardrobe. Rather, try mixing and matching some of the above items with feminine garments to find a balance that suits you. Alexander Wang did this brilliantly when he combined slouchy blazers, mesh skirts, and oversized button-up shirts in his fall collection. Some of our other favorite menswear-inspired moments from fall include Isabel Marant's oversized blazers (belted at the waist for a ladylike touch), the Twill Karate Pants ($775) from Proenza Schouler, and the Tweed Newsboy Caps ($175) shown at Dolce & Gabbana. Read on, dear readers, for your own personal ticket to the boys' club! —Jessica Amento

1. EP Caliber Vintage Aviator Sunglasses ($10)
These Tom Ford-reminiscent shades will automatically accent the masculine elements in any outfit. We picture someone with an effortlessly cool essence—like Michelle Williams—wearing them.

2. Urban Renewal Vintage Lady's Blazer ($48)
If you plan on practicing a menswear look at anytime, a blazer is the single most important piece to have on hand. We are especially taken with vintage options, like this one, courtesy of Urban Outfitters, for their great price and cut. Wear them with a frilly blouse for a boy-meets-girl effect.

3. Timex Dress Watch ($65)
Even if you aren't punctual, you can fake it with this oversized watch. It reminds us of something we would take from our grandpa's closet. Another reason to love it: the chunky band will make even hefty wrists look bird-like!

4. Liz Clairborne Vintage Croco Organizer ($74)
As regular readers know, we love our briefcase-style bags right now, and this mock croc version is simply perfect. You'll blend right in at wall street with it!

5. Topshop Herringbone Tail Waistcoat ($65)
You can wear this vest with a rugged tee and boyfriend jeans during the day and then adapt it to an evening look by throwing it on over a floral dress, black tights, and over-the-knee boots.

6. H&M Trousers ($35)
These baggy pants remind us of the slouchy slacks seen on Proenza Schouler's fall runway. Wear them with some unexpected platform heels or perhaps the Balmain-inspired fringe boots, and a tucked-in tee or other fitted top.

7. Charlotte Russe Herringbone Tweed Fedora ($28)
Throwing on a hat will simply and effectively put a boyish spin on any look! The neutral color of this fedora makes it an easy add-on to any outfit.

8. Brooklyn Industries Thayer Skirt ($78)
We love that the feminine shape of this skirt is off-set by its masculine wool-blend fabric. Wear it with an oversized blazer, patterned tights, and lace-up patent heels.

9. Steve Madden Oxxie Flats ($70)
As a cousin to the loafers we're currently fond of, we are equally besotted with these patent lace-up shoes. Look to Alexa Chung—the flats queen—for inspiration on wearing them with feminine ensembles.

10. Ralph Lauren Faux Croc Skinny Belt ($42)
Take a cue from Isabel Marant by cinching this skinny belt over a blazer. Also, note that you can easily mix and match this with the rest of the accessories in today's story.

11. Les Prairies De Paris Stockette ($48)
We admit that we have stolen a few socks like these from our boyfriends over the years, but it never hurts to add another set to our stockpile! For some juxtaposition below your ankles, try wearing this pair scrunched up under some platform heels.