From His Closet to Mine: The Art of Borrowing Style

From His Closet to Mine: The Art of Borrowing Style

Growing up, I always had a knack for dressing differently. I wasn’t the type to be boxed into skirts and frilly tops—no, I found comfort and power in oversized hoodies, loose jeans, and well-loved shirts. But here's the kicker: most of those wardrobe gems weren’t originally mine. They came from my brothers, my grandfather, and now my partner.

It all started innocently enough. I’d find myself wandering into my brother's room, sifting through his wardrobe for something to wear. Hoodies, t-shirts, shirts—if it caught my eye, it was mine (temporarily, of course). I remember one time vividly. It was Civic Day at school, the one day we could ditch the uniform and show off our style. My brother had this hoodie—his absolute favorite—and a pair of jeans that fit just right. He’d warned me not to touch them, but stubborn as I was, I snuck them out while he was asleep.

That day, I felt like I was in a Sister Act music video, serving full-on Lauryn Hill vibes. My classmates might have called me “weird,” but I knew I was rocking it. The mistake? Taking photos. Somehow, my brother found them and went days without speaking to me. His revenge? Wearing my favorite sneakers and stomping around like he owned the place. Fair game, I suppose!

My love for “borrowing” didn’t stop there. I’d eye my grandfather’s suits and ties, asking him if I could borrow a piece or two. To my surprise, he obliged, and I’d proudly rock his ties to church, pairing them with dresses or oversized shirts. I remember the amused looks and the compliments from church members—they loved seeing me mix vintage masculinity with a modern flair.

Now, I share clothes with my partner. His hoodies, sweaters, and even jeans are fair game, and unlike some people, he loves seeing me in them. There’s something empowering about putting on a piece of men’s clothing and making it your own. It’s not about gender; it’s about expression and comfort. He’ll often tell me, “You look so cool in this,” and I can’t help but grin.

Here’s the magic of it all: women rocking men’s clothing is a style statement that exudes confidence. The secret lies in the mix. Oversized hoodies? Pair them with sleek leggings or chunky boots for an edgy street style look. Borrowed jeans? Cinch them with a statement belt and throw on a fitted crop top or blazer for balance. Grandpa’s ties? Knot them loosely over a crisp white shirt or a flowy dress for a playful, chic vibe. It’s about taking something masculine and twisting it into something uniquely yours.

Men’s clothing often flatters in unexpected ways—it hugs and drapes in all the right places, giving you a relaxed yet powerful silhouette. It’s comfortable, versatile, and endlessly stylish. Most importantly, it’s yours to interpret however you like.

Fashion has no rules, and there’s a certain joy in defying expectations. So, whether it’s a brother’s hoodie, a grandfather’s tie, or a partner’s jeans, don’t just wear it—own it.

"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." – Rachel Zoe