The Fashion Girl’s Guide To Wearing Tailoring & Sportswear

As little girls, many of us were put in pretty sundresses, showered with a shitload of sparkles or shades of pink, and finished off with bows and cutesy accessories. Among those who were given the freedom to run around in trousers, shorts, and jumpers, the majority were probably categorically labeled "tomboy." In 2016, thankfully, we’re less pigeonholed into having to dress a certain way: Guys can wear skirts without being considered eccentric; girls can do sharp tailoring and sportswear without being described as androgynous. Because really, why should certain clothing be exclusive to one gender or another? Vivienne Westwood once said, “It is not possible for a man to be elegant without a touch of femininity,” and as ever, we salute her foresight and open-mindedness toward fluidity and its influence on fashion. For a number of seasons, international designer labels, like J.W.Anderson, Wales Bonner, Hood by Air, and Céline, have embraced the agender movement. Skirts and tunics in silk and lace repeatedly crop up during men’s fashion weeks, while stereotypically "masculine" suiting and athletic items have featured countlessly in womenswear collections. Just one look at Alessandro Michele’s transformation at Gucci — and his consolidated, geek-chic vision of ruffled blouses and eccentric patterns for both men and women — and you'll see the way in which both genders are borrowing from each other's wardrobes. If you haven't yet considered this approach to dressing, let the outfits below be your guiding (styling) light. That way, when Fashion Week commences early next month, and the catwalk continues to blur the line between men's and womenswear, you'll already be a pro.

Balance out an oversized top, like this long-sleeved sweatshirt from Vetements, with slim-fitting trousers or jeans to even out the proportions. Yes, we know our mothers used to tell us to roll up our sleeves when we were kids, but this season, the longer, the better. Sorry, mom.

When opting for a crisp shirt and trousers combo, try a softer color, like white, that doesn't feel as structured or stuffy. And, in place of a blazer, make the classic ensemble feel more unique with a tailored denim coat.

If you're dabbling in menswear for the first time, a tough, leather biker jacket or bomber is the perfect place to start. If you're already a seasoned vet, be more ambitious, with something unconventional, like basketball shorts.

Delicate jewelry is a subtle, simple way to tone down (and dress up) a look that's overly sporty.

Yes, tracksuits are chic. Team a zip-up with tailored trousers to take on 2016's most ubiquitous trend: athleisure. And don't be scared to clash color and pattern, either.

Daunted by the idea of a formal suit? Cheat the aesthetic slightly with a tailored longline vest and pinstriped trousers. Here, it's worn with sneakers to dress things down even further, but the look could easily be worn with platforms for a more formal feel.

Simplicity is key. Pair a suit with sneakers and a T-shirt for a cool-girl twist on smart casual.

Bored by your weekend wardrobe? Try a hoodie, denim shorts, and slides. Be warned: Everyone you know will want to steal this outfit.