Androgynous Style

I've always been a bit of a tomboy. That's what happens when you have two brothers, and like riding a bike. So, I'm happy when women's fashion takes a masculine turn. When Tilda Swinton shows up on the red carpet in a suit, or Catherine Deneuve in a YSL tuxedo. These images are from the final J+ Uniqlo collection. Good, aren't they? And here's the designer Jil Sander:



Another woman with trend-defying style, here's what Sander told the Guardian this week, 'My personal style has stayed pretty much the same over the years. For work, I like a perfect pair of trousers and a white shirt, designed according to the spirit of the moment.'

And there's a great interview with Jane Birkin in this month's Vogue, sadly the accompanying photo has been airbrushed to the max. I know I've met Jane Birkin! Anyhow, her advice for looking sexy is to, ' Wear men's clothes and smile. Old stuff is grand, especially men's trousers. I feel very sexy when I'm wearing those.'



Personally when I think of old men's trousers, I feel very sick. The thought of a pair of smelly tweed pants with a stained crotch is enough to make me throw up all over my keyboard. Sorry, Jane but I wouldn't be found dead in a pair. Anyhow. This is what I love about Tomboy Style:

1. Tailoring is an easy way to smarten up, and sculpt the figure - always a flattering option when the flesh starts to get a bit wobbly.
2. Comfy shoes rule. I wear heels on special occasions. I have a job where I'm on my feet a lot. And I ride a bike, unlike Kelly Brook, I prefer to cycle in flats. Which is why I wear classic brogues and loafers.
3. Minimalism looks sharper than maximalism. End of.

And here are some of my favourite looks. The top picture is Hobbs NW3 and the overcoat and casual outfit are from Toast:





Oh and there's a fabulous blog called Tomboy Style. You should check it out.



Jil Sander photo: Getty