When I discovered what the title was for this Tao Okamoto Vogue China August 2011 editorial was 'Handsome Girl,' the theme of the spread seemed to make more sense. Through looking at these stunning captures by high-fashion photographer Lachlan Bailey, you will see that there is an obvious masculine undertone in these prints.
In this Tao Okamoto Vogue China August spread, the model is fashioned in rather manly studded blazers, oversized clothing and wears minimal makeup. This shoot just goes to prove that models as fierce as Tao Okamoto can pull off even the most masculine looks.
Implications - The fashion world continues to push the envelope as women's fashion is becoming increasingly masculinized. This masculinization of femininity represents the overall push among female consumers for products that offer the same comfort and utility to women as they do to male consumers.
Masculinized Manlike Muses
This Tao Okamoto Vogue China August 2011 Spread Shows a 'Handsome Girl'
Trend Themes
1. Masculinized Femininity - The trend of masculinizing women's fashion offers opportunities for companies to create clothing and products that combine comfort and utility with feminine style.
2. Gender-fluid Fashion - The rise of gender-fluid fashion opens up innovation opportunities for brands to create clothing and accessories that blur traditional gender boundaries.
3. Minimalist Makeup - The trend towards minimal makeup allows for the development of beauty products that enhance natural features and cater to the growing demand for a more effortless and androgynous aesthetic.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can explore new designs and marketing strategies to cater to the growing demand for gender-blurring fashion trends.
2. Beauty - The beauty industry has opportunities to create and promote minimalist makeup products that appeal to consumers seeking a more natural and gender-fluid aesthetic.
3. Retail - The retail industry can adapt its offerings and store layouts to accommodate the increasing interest in gender-fluid fashion and provide a diverse and inclusive shopping experience.