SELFHOOD on: Gender fluid garms

by Kyra Clement

Sex and gender are not binary, so why should our clothes be?

The next generation of consumers are the most open, inclusive, and curious yet - restrictive ‘rules’ around gender appropriate clothing are being challenged as young people choose to express themselves as they see fit.

Whilst it’s clear that as a society we have created these arbitrary distinctions, the shift to a more fluid view of clothing isn’t as new as some may think.  

Yes, icons like Harry Styles have been at the forefront of androgynous fashion in recent years, but the likes of David Bowie, Prince and Andre 3000 all played their part in challenging gender norms when it came to fashion. It’s not surprising that all three artists remain incredibly relevant today.

In fact, SELFHOOD collective member and gender fluidity advocate, Lancer, 21, reminded us that clothing hasn’t always carried the weighted gender connotations that it does now, citing Romans as original gender fluid pioneers - ‘everyone was just wearing the same garms’.  

By continuing to loosen the constraints of what is deemed ‘male’ and ‘female’ the Next Gen are allowing for a lot more creativity and experimentation when it comes to fashion. As SELFHOOD collective member, Jess, 21 put it:

“I find that it’s so much more fun; I have so many more clothes to be able to style with.”

Having a wider palette to choose from not only liberates you to wear what you feel comfortable in, but also results in more visually interesting outfit choices. The most creatively fluent generation yet is craving more freedom when it comes to clothing.

Fashion has always served as a reflection of societal change, so it makes sense that, as attitudes shift towards acceptance, the industry is quick to mirror it – from the catwalk to the high street.  

That’s not to say that gender must be eradicated within clothing completely for fashion brands to stay relevant with Gen Z (although that isn’t necessarily a bad aim to have). Rather, more practical actions like making clothing more accessible to all genders (i.e. including accurate sizing for both men and women) is one thing Gen Z are wanting from their favourite stores and brands.

With The Phluid Project recently finding that 56% of Gen Z consumers shop outside of their assigned gendered area, it’s clear that the world is evolving, and brands need to evolve with it. And it isn’t a simple fix of introducing shapeless and oversized “unisex” garments (which overlook those who wear certain items to affirm their identity).

It requires a nuanced and deliberate approach, which seems to be understood more by Gen Z than anybody else.

As this generation continues to blur the lines of mainstream fashion, brands will be scrutinised by consumers to see whether their actions are genuine attempts at inclusivity, or tokenistic gestures to paint themselves as ‘woke’.

It’s clear that Gen Z’s custom will go to the businesses that move forward with integrity.