GenderQueer Literature

How to Dress Like a Woman 101

Surprisingly, to me anyway, magazines still push the idea of what men and women SHOULD wear. I offer the list here as ways for writers to play with such expectations. By describing your narrators with a mix of both what are called mens and womens clothing, you can challenge the notion of gendered appearances. You can create a bit of ambiguity or present a non-binary character.

For women: You will need the following items in your wardrobe: 

  • A Wedding Dress
  • Pant suit  
  • Crisp White Tee
  • Crisp White Shirt (long sleeved, silk, cotton)
  • Tank tops
  • Asymetrical tops
  • A blouse
  • Basic tee shirts
  • Wrap Dress
  • Formal dress
  • Little Black Dress
  • Printed summer dress
  • Classic skirt
  • Pencil skirt  
  • Knee-length skirt
  • Jeans (that complement your body shape)
  • Black/dress pants
  • Khaki or pale slacks
  • Denim shorts
  • High waisted leggings (black or opaque)
  • Stockings
  • Hoodies
  • Trench Coat
  • Leather jacket
  • Denim jacket
  • Blazer
  • Long sleeveless vest
  • Cashmere sweater
  • Light wool cardigan
  • Simple Flats
  • Ballet flats
  • Heels (for many occasions)
  • Sneakers
  • Pumps
  • Ankle booties 
  • Sandals
  • Flipflops
  • Bathrobe/dressing gown
  • Bras for all occasions
  • Seamless underwear
  • Slip
  • Petticoat
  • Garter belt
  • Tights/hose
  • Socks (ankle, white)
  • Gym clothes
  • Bathing suit/bikini
  • Yoga pants
  • Apron

Accessories:

  • Classic leather belts
  • Tote bags
  • Evening clutch
  • Silk or lightweight scarf
  • Statement neclace
  • Sunglasses
  • Regular glasses
  • Gloves
  • Thong
  • Hat
  • Necklace
  • Ring
  • Earrings
  • Perfume
  • Mittens
  • Sunglasses
  • Handbag
  • Bracelet
  • Purse
  • Watch
  • Umbrella
  • Scarf
  • Muff

This list came from a mix of three women’s magazines in 2021. I have to cringe. I hope you do too. They were serious.