Fashion has a fascinating history, often challenging the rigid boundaries of gender. Many items now celebrated as quintessentially feminine were originally created for men, embodying practicality, status, or even rebellion. Over time, they’ve evolved into staples of women’s wardrobes. Here are five fashion items that made this surprising transition:
- High heels
High heels are synonymous with elegance and femininity today, but their origins trace back to men’s footwear in the 10th century. Persian soldiers wore heeled shoes to secure their feet in stirrups while riding horses. By the 17th century, European aristocrats adopted heels as a symbol of wealth and status, with King Louis XIV of France popularising their use. It wasn’t until the late 18th century that high heels became predominantly associated with women, transforming into symbols of glamour and sophistication.
- Stockings and Tights
Initially designed for men in the Middle Ages, stockings were an essential part of male attire, often made from wool, silk, or cotton. They were practical for warmth and fashionable, with elaborate designs and bright colours that signified wealth. By the 19th century, stockings transitioned into women’s fashion, becoming thinner and more decorative, eventually leading to the sheer nylons we associate with femininity today.
- Handbags
Handbags were once functional accessories for men. In the 16th and 17th centuries, men carried pouches to store coins and small items. As women’s clothing began to feature slimmer silhouettes with fewer pockets, the handbag became a necessity for them. Over time, handbags evolved into a major style statement for women, with luxurious designs that cater to both practicality and aesthetic appeal.
- Earrings
Earrings have been a part of human adornment for millennia, often worn by men to signify power, wealth, or tribal affiliation. In ancient civilisations like Egypt and Rome, men adorned their ears with gold and gemstones. Over the centuries, earrings became less common among men in Western fashion but gained prominence as a feminine accessory, prized for their ability to enhance beauty and express individuality.
- Lace
Lace, now regarded as a delicate and feminine fabric, was once a symbol of status for men. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, European nobility wore intricate lace collars, cuffs, and cravats. The fabric’s association with luxury made it highly desirable. By the Victorian era, lace was incorporated into women’s clothing, particularly bridal and evening wear, cementing its association with femininity.
Fashion continually evolves, reflecting societal changes and personal expression. These five items remind us of the fluidity of style and how what we consider “feminine” or “masculine” is often a product of cultural perception. The transformation of these pieces from male to female domains highlights how fashion transcends gender, reinterpreting itself with every generation.