The history of fashion and beauty holds surprising origins – many trends we now associate with women’s fashion were originally popularized by men. From high heels to elaborate wigs, numerous iconic style elements began as masculine fashion statements, particularly among society’s elite. This fascinating evolution of fashion challenges our modern assumptions about gendered clothing and beauty practices. Here are 15 remarkable examples of fashion trends that originated in men’s fashion, illuminating how cultural perceptions of style have transformed over centuries.
Wigs
European royal males in the 17th century famously wore wigs, but hairpieces have been around since ancient Egypt, around 2700 BC! Louis XIV was a major proponent of the white, curly wig as his own hair was thinning. Four hundred years ago, the living conditions were not as hygienic as today, and shaved heads and wigs helped prevent head lice. Women in the 17th century used to shave their heads and wear wigs as a status symbol. The wig trend lost popularity for men in the 19th century but is now a billion-dollar industry for women’s hairstyles… think detachable ponytails! Wigs today are made from synthetic materials and human hair, with endless styles and colors to choose from, ensuring their place as a versatile fashion accessory.
High Heels
You’d never guess, but this footwear was invented in Persia in the 10th century for warrior horsemen to keep their feet inside their stirrups! Then in the 17th century, men wore high heels as a sign of higher social class. Women later adopted them to exude masculinity, power, and recognition. Men still wear riding boots with high heels, but the high-heeled shoe is now almost entirely in the domain of women. Today, heels come in countless styles, from stilettos to block heels, symbolizing sophistication and empowerment for many.
Pink
Pink has only been relatively recently associated with femininity, since the end of World War II. In the postwar period, pink was branded for girls as part of the effort to keep them at home and back in traditional roles. In the 1700s, it was aristocratic men who wore this hue. Pink dates back to Homer’s Odyssey in 800 BC, but the term was coined in the 17th century by a Greek botanist to describe the edges of carnations. These days, both men and women wear pink, but little girls are often in pink and boys in blue. The cultural evolution of pink continues, with fashion designers frequently redefining its role in modern wardrobes.
Jumpsuits
Originally designed in 1919 for men to wear while parachuting out of planes, the jumpsuit was male workwear, a functional one-piece garment. Prisoners wear jumpsuits to distinguish them from the guards, and recently orange ones became popular “outside” due to the Netflix series Orange is the New Black. These days, jumpsuits are unisex, and designers have even made them for evening wear for women. It is a more flexible and convenient fashion item than ensembles, but unless the jumpsuit has a “drop seat,” it is necessary to remove it entirely for bathroom use. Despite this minor inconvenience, the jumpsuit’s popularity continues to grow due to its versatility and chic appeal.
Loafers
Loafers are a style of slip-on shoe that is usually made of leather or suede. They do not feature any fastenings, laces, or other closures. The origin of the loafer is somewhat contested. Some say 19th-century Norwegian farmers first designed them for their work, while others refer to the Native American moccasin as the inspiration for the design. Either way, the loafer began as a man’s shoe, and women began wearing them in the 1950s. They are now a staple in women’s footwear collections globally. Modern loafers come in various designs, from classic penny loafers to embellished styles, catering to both casual and formal occasions.
Large-Faced Watches
Men wore large-faced watches from the 16th century. Women’s timepieces were traditionally dainty and much smaller. Since the 2000s, women have also gravitated toward big-faced watches. In 2024, nearly half of all female watch buyers in America prefer larger-face watches, often choosing timepieces with case diameters of 36mm or even bigger. These watches make bold statements, blending functionality with fashion, and have become a unisex trend.
Blazers
The origin of this sartorial term is rather fun! One source suggests the crew of the Royal Navy’s gunboat, HMS Blazer, launched in 1856, began wearing blue and white jackets, later known as “blazers.” Another source says the term originated with the red “blazers” worn by the Lady Margaret Boat Club of St John’s College, Cambridge, in 1825. Either way, this fashion staple was a man’s wardrobe inclusion up until the middle of the 20th century when women began to wear them too! Today, blazers are an essential part of power dressing, offering a polished look for both sexes.
Pants
For much of modern history, pants were a men thing. Various U.S. cities in the 19th and 20th centuries even passed legislation banning women from wearing trousers, criminalizing “a dress not belonging to his or her sex.” By the 1930s, actresses like Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn wore them in movies, and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt wore them too. Now, we all wear them! Trousers have evolved into a variety of styles, from formal slacks to trendy wide-leg pants, proving their enduring appeal.
Purses
The oldest known purse dates back more than 5,000 years and was a pouch worn by a man, known as Ötzi the Iceman. Historically, when men didn’t have pockets in their tunics or trousers, they carried coin purses. These days, the purse has developed into the handbag, and 60% of women aged 35 and older own one! Modern handbags come in countless shapes and sizes, from clutches to totes, often reflecting their owners’ personal style and functionality needs.
Tights
Since the 13th century, “hose” were worn by European men—close-fitting leg coverings stretching from waist to feet. Unlike modern tights, they were not elastic and were laced to hold firm. Tights were practical for horseback riding and warmth. After the Industrial Revolution, feminine hosiery took off with nylon becoming the material for mass-produced tights. Today, tights are a staple in many wardrobes, valued for their versatility and ability to elevate outfits year-round.
Makeup
In ancient Egypt, 6,000 years ago, men wore makeup they believed appealed to gods. Elaborate eyeliner, kohl, rouge, and malachite eye shadow were popular. The global cosmetics industry is now worth $295.95 billion (2023) and growing as people seek to enhance their appearance. Makeup has transcended gender norms, with modern trends embracing self-expression through bold and artistic styles.
Ruffled Shirts
Elite European men in the Renaissance wore ruffled shirts as a testament to wealth and social standing. The frills, called “jabots,” were intricately made. From the stiff ruffles of 17th-century aristocrats to loose-flowing peasant blouses in the 70s, ruffled tops remain a fashion mainstay for both sexes. Contemporary fashion has reimagined ruffles, integrating them into minimalist and extravagant designs alike.
Thigh-High Boots
Originally designed as riding boots for men in the 15th century, thigh-high boots are now a staple in women’s footwear. Often called over-the-knee boots, they’re crafted from materials like suede, canvas, satin, leather, and even alligator hide. These boots, both functional and fashionable, make dramatic statements, offering versatility for casual and formal ensembles.
Tattoos
Tattooing has been practiced since Neolithic times, as evidenced by Ötzi the Iceman’s preserved skin. The Romans and Greeks used tattoos to mark prisoners of war, while Egyptians wore them for adornment. Today, 38% of women and 27% of men have at least one tattoo. Tattoos have become a universal art form, allowing individuals to express their identities, memories, and beliefs.
Skirts
Men have worn skirts since ancient Egypt, with pharaohs donning gauze fabric around the waist. The Scottish kilt, a skirt-like garment, dates back to the 16th century and is still worn today. Women adopted skirts in the early 19th century, now wearing them in various lengths, including mini! Skirts continue to evolve in fashion, showcasing diverse cuts, fabrics, and cultural influences.
