Making a statement

Shirts proclaiming feminist slogans are standard issue for many college students, but who would have predicted that they would become a key trend on the runway? Woke couture sent out its first shoots last year when Dior designer Maria Grazia Chiuri paired a flowing tulle skirt with a T-shirt that declared, “We Should all be feminist”. The shirt, retailing for $700, was an immediate social media success and has since been worn by Natalie Portman and Rihanna.

The novelty seems to be rooted in the notion that Dior is making a feminist statement. Suddenly, the fashion crowd has embraced political clothing.

Here’s a look at some strong feminist fads.

Slogan tees

The past few runway seasons have gone political, expressing the leanings of designers and their fans—and your wardrobe can follow suit.

Go casual and pair your graphic top with cutoff denim shorts, or have fun with a more dressed-up style by mixing your cotton tee with an embellished skirt and heels; there’s something for everyone when it comes to one of the biggest (and boldest) trends of the season.

Flannel shirts

Considering that flannels are one of the best things about cold weather fashion, you definitely don’t want to miss out on them. You also don’t want to get stuck in a rut of only wearing them with jeans and flats or boots. There are so many other things to do with a plaid shirt, no matter how casual it seems.

An over-sized plaid shirt can be worn open as a cardigan and makes a cute layer with denim shorts and tights. Accessorise with a chunky knit scarf and a beanie to stay warm, and pair your plaid shirt with distressed jeans for a comfy weekend outfit.

Biker boots

The thing about biker boots is that, as flat shoes go, they really don’t look too bad. The chunkiness is flattering to the legs and when you are wearing a bulky sweater or a jacket, they finish the silhouette in a more aesthetically pleasing way than trainers or converse, which are a bit weak and saggy. A biker boot has some of the assertiveness you get from a heel.

Since the mainstream trousers or jean silhouette is skinny or straight legged and ends at the ankle now, the biker works perfectly with it. Try it with a short skirt and slogan tees too.

Almost Androgynous

Everything that’s in your boyfriend’s closet and makes him macho, will make you look all the more feminist too.

Accessorise with feminine delicate jewellery or chunky boho pieces. It’s all good as long as it’s not overdone. The idea is to maintain your femininity whilst adorning yourself with manly silhouettes.