12 Pieces to Borrow From the Boys — and Never Give Back
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If you've ever shrugged on your guy friend's sweater, you probably didn't take it off for a while. And if you've ever gone for a chic look in one of his pin-striped blouses — cinching it at the waist with a thin, tan belt — you've invited compliments from all your girlfriends. That's because there's something about a menswear fit that feels good — and even if you do have to have something tailored, you'll find that a quick update is worth every penny.
It seems like every sweatshirt, tee, and jacket you borrow from the boys ultimately makes for a cooler outfit that has that perfect girl-meets-boy appeal. So why not throw out the rule book, and shop where the guys do? After all, it seems like their baseball caps and totes benefit from cuter patterns, too.
Whether you choose to roll up the sleeves of a classic button-down, style a cashmere sweater with skinnies, heels, and a swipe of red lipstick for a night out, or just snuggle up with a good book in a cardigan, chances are you'll like your outfit a whole lot better — and you don't even have to tell anyone you borrowed stole from the boys department. Scroll down to scoop up the good stuff. Source: IMAXTREE/Vincenzo Grillo
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Brooks Brothers Blue Bold Stripe Sport Shirt
Belt a pin-striped button-up over skinny jeans and booties or a pencil skirt for an easy daytime-to-nighttime look.
Brooks Brothers Blue Bold Stripe Sport Shirt ($135, originally $225)
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H&M Knit Cardigan
Use a cozy grandpa cardigan for layering when the temperatures drop, and style it with sleek leather jeans or leggings with tall boots when you're headed out for a casual dinner.
H&M Knit Cardigan ($50)
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Marc Jacobs Striped Linen and Leather Cap
The ultimate off-duty topper? A baseball cap with a touch of leather.
Marc Jacobs Striped Linen and Leather Cap ($311, originally $415)
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Joe Fresh Varsity Jacket
Sure, you might have your own varsity jacket with a slim fit, but this style will be just a touch oversize, and it'll sit perfectly on your shoulders when you're in the mood for a makeshift cape.
Joe Fresh Varsity Jacket ($99, originally $199)
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Forever 21 Classic Corduroy Pants
Fitted corduroy pants had their moment, but now it's all about the slouch. Roll 'em up and pair them with high-tops on the weekend, or polish them off with loafers for the office.
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J.Crew Italian Cashmere Cable Sweater
Picture this: your distressed skinny jeans rolled twice, strappy heels, and this cozy cashmere sweater. That Fall going-out ensemble? This is it.
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Paul Smith Thread Stitch Belt
This eye-catching statement belt will work just as well with your denim, as it will with boho-style dresses during the Summer.
Paul Smith Thread Stitch Belt ($94, originally $135)
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Missoni Cotton and Leather Tote
Admit it — you've never found a graphic-print tote this cool in the girls section.
Missoni Cotton and Leather Tote ($302, originally $565)
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2xist Bandana-Print Stretch-Knit Tank
You can sport a classic bandanna print with anything, but we picture this simple tank underneath your army jacket.
2xist Bandana-Print Stretch-Knit Tank ($14, originally $20)
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Mr Porter Slim-Fit Distressed Washed-Denim Jeans
They made boyfriend jeans for a reason, didn't they? You might as well invest in the real deal.
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Nixon The Sentry Leather Watch
A totally cool addition to your arm party that's just as neutral as it is bright.
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Jacks & Jokers Graphic T-Shirt
This tee totally brings out the irony in your little borrow-from-the-boys fashion hack.
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