7 Gender neutral clothing labels to shop right now
Noteworthy brands creating less restrictive clothing — and many right here in Canada.
The idea of gender-neutral clothing has been getting some big play in recent years, with major brands like Zara, Frank & Oak, Simons and more releasing capsule collections to much fanfare. But do a quick search and you'll see that most of these capsules didn't last longer than a season, even though our want for more inclusive clothing prevails. Internationally, brands like Gender Free World are doing some great things to bring about better parity in clothing cuts. And thankfully there are a few noteworthy labels right here at home that are taking the time to design unrestricting pieces that defy a binary gender system.
Here are seven ways to add gender-neutral clothing to your fall wardrobe.
'Tis the season
If you're in need of a warm puffer, Biannual has the answer. This consciously-made brand has banned the use of real fur, down and leather in their statement-making pieces, while maintaining a luxe quality to each super-chic jacket. And this pop of colour is practically daring you to defy its feminine leanings.
Biannual Short Puffer, $495, biannual.com
Go graphic
Canadian unisex label Muttonhead is the perfect place to go for logo tees — and this varsity version is as on-trend as its sustainably sourced fabric. Muttonhead also has a children's section if you're looking to keep the kids away from just blue or pink togs.
Muttonhead Stray Mutt Tee in Heather Grey, $48, muttonheadstore.com
Attention!
Latre is a Dundas West clothing store in Toronto that also offers its gender-neutral wares online. One major standout this season — these US Navy Coveralls! All pieces are upcycled, so you'll be shopping more sustainably, and coveralls are about to hit a fever pitch when it comes to all things #trending!
Latre US Navy Coveralls, $95, latreartandstyle.com
Tank girl (or boy)
Broke & Living is a Toronto-based label, created by trio Charlene Akuamoah, Meghan Prosper and Nicole Simmons. Their pieces are made to be worn however you see fit, like this long mesh tank top that is basically the most perfect athleisure layering piece we've ever seen.
Broke and Living Murder She Wrote dress, $75, brokeandliving.com
Added bite
You may have seen Andrew Coimbra's name pop up before, like here, and that's because this Canadian design-wunderkind is kicking ass with his genderless line of sports-inspired contemporary fashion. His printed coats are highly coveted (especially by the editor-set in Toronto!), and this snake print windbreaker will be added to many a shopping list this season.
Andrew Coimbra Windbreaker Black/Yellow Snake Print, $570, andrewcoimbra.com
Couture for all
Montreal-raised designer Rad Hourani was the first Canadian to be invited to the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris, getting the call in January 2013. He was also the first designer there to present a unisex collection, and he prides himself on creating a new, freer way for the world to dress. His classic shirt, with its beautiful blue pinstripes and sharp tailoring, is a must for any fashion-lover's closet.
Rad Hourani Unisex Classic Shirt, $795, radhourani.com
Double agent
For Fall 2018, Club Monaco announced a pivot in perspective. The brand, which was founded in Canada in 1985 and is now owned by Ralph Lauren, went with a dual-gender approach, which means while clothes are designated women or men, yet they believe it's up to the customer to determine how they style each piece, for example, in their latest ad campaign, women sported men's trousers and male models threw on a women's shearling. These men's trousers are a prime example of a piece that would work on either sex.