Androgyny in LA Street Style

Street style in Los Angeles is all about looking both put together, and effortless. The average person walking the streets of LA appears as though they could be going to any event; ready to take on anything at a moment’s notice. Every aspect of a look is entirely thought out, from the slight slouch in a jacket to each hair upon an individual’s head. Not a single part of the look goes without thought. There is a perfect balance always achieved in the outfit; both in colour and size. Every look is made to stand out, unique and quirky pieces defining the look, but somehow seems to fit in at every setting. Whether a person is attending a fashion show, or heading out for pizza, they manage to look as though they belong. 

Despite the uniqueness the people of LA seem to strive for, both men and women often seem to dress somewhat alike. The lines between male and female fashion are often blurred, and the androgynous look is more prevalent than ever.  Fashion gender norms are being broken down by the trendsetters of the city. While a few years ago, the idea of a man walking down the streets in heels and a full face of makeup seemed absolutely absurd, it is now not only commonplace, but often praised. 

On the opposite end of things, women are now taking on what has been considered more masculine traits; growing out body hair, shaving their heads, and abandoning their traditional gender roles. In the fashion world, this means women are wearing more men’s styles in both casual and professional looks, while men dress more flamboyantly for work and for play. While women have been adapting men’s fashion for centuries, the typical men’s fashion choices are finally reversing, with bold prints and fun colours becoming a normal part of their wardrobe. The challenging of these stereotypes has had a huge impact on street style in Los Angeles. It no longer matters whether a jacket comes from the men’s side of the store, or the women’s - what matters the most is how it looks, fits, and feels.