What Fashion Would Look Like If Women Created It for Themselves, Not for Men

Fashion has long been a reflection of societal values, but it’s also shaped by the people who create it and the audience for whom it’s designed. Historically, much of the fashion industry has been driven by the preferences and desires of men, whether in terms of aesthetics, structure, or functionality. But what if women had the power to create fashion solely for themselves, without the influence of male perspectives? How would the industry look if women designed clothing that catered to their own needs, desires, and identities? In this article, we explore the possibilities of a fashion world that is fully female-centered.

The Historical Influence of Male Designers on Fashion

Fashion, as we know it, has been largely shaped by male designers and industry leaders. While there have been incredible women in fashion, such as Coco Chanel, many of the most influential names in fashion history are male—from Christian Dior to Yves Saint Laurent and Giorgio Armani. The male-dominated structure of the fashion industry has impacted what is considered stylish and appropriate for women.

For much of history, the female body has been subject to male ideals. Women were often told what was fashionable based on how well it aligned with male desires and expectations. For example, the hourglass figure and corsets were designed to accentuate women’s bodies in a way that was appealing to men. This created a standard that often disregarded comfort, practicality, and the personal preferences of women themselves.

If women had been in charge of fashion from the start, it’s likely that fashion would have evolved differently. Instead of focusing on what would please male observers, women’s clothing might have been more aligned with their own desires for comfort, freedom, and self-expression.

Comfort and Functionality Over Aesthetics for Men

One of the first noticeable changes in a fashion world led by women would be a stronger emphasis on comfort and functionality. For decades, women have been expected to wear clothing that, while stylish, often sacrifices comfort. High heels, tight dresses, and structured garments are common examples of how fashion has prioritized appearance over practicality.

If women were designing for themselves, comfort would likely be a top priority. We might see clothing made from softer, more breathable fabrics, without the constraints of rigid forms and uncomfortable undergarments. Imagine a world where pants, skirts, and dresses are all equally comfortable, and high heels are replaced with more practical and stylish alternatives, such as sneakers or flat shoes.

Moreover, functional pockets would likely be a staple in women’s clothing. Women have long been expected to carry handbags, but if fashion were created for women by women, it’s plausible that we would see clothing with deep, functional pockets designed for carrying everyday essentials.

Freedom of Expression: A Rejection of Beauty Standards

Another profound shift in a fashion world created by women would be a rejection of traditional beauty standards. The current fashion industry often emphasizes a narrow definition of beauty—tall, thin, and youthful. These standards have been reinforced by male designers, photographers, and media, leaving little room for diversity in body types, ages, and appearances.

In a female-driven fashion world, there would likely be a much broader representation of beauty. Fashion would cater to various body types, ages, and ethnicities, embracing the diversity of women rather than conforming to a one-size-fits-all model. Women’s clothing might include more inclusive sizing, with designs that celebrate curves, muscle, and different silhouettes. This would allow women to dress in a way that feels authentic to their bodies, without the pressure to fit into an idealized mold.

The designs would also be more empowering. Rather than focusing on making women look more “feminine” or “appealing” to men, fashion might be more about empowerment and individuality. Clothing could be created to make women feel confident in their own skin, embracing strength and autonomy, not simply attracting attention.

Practicality in Everyday Wear

In today’s fashion landscape, there is often a sharp divide between high fashion and everyday wear. Designers tend to focus on creating clothing that pushes boundaries or represents status, while daily clothing often falls into the category of basic and functional, but not necessarily stylish. However, if women were the primary designers, we might see more practical yet stylish everyday fashion.

Clothing for work, home, or casual outings could be functional, versatile, and stylish, without sacrificing ease of wear. For example, workwear could be designed with comfort in mind—tailored pants, dresses, and blouses that don’t require constant adjustment. Women may also choose clothing that seamlessly blends with various social settings, reflecting their multifaceted roles as professionals, mothers, and individuals.

Seasonal fashion would also become more practical. Instead of creating items that only serve one season, such as bulky coats or overly trendy pieces, women could design clothing that adapts to changing weather and can be worn year-round. This focus on practicality could lead to timeless designs that prioritize comfort and adaptability over temporary trends.

The Future: A Feminist Fashion Industry?

Looking to the future, it’s possible that we could see women taking control of the fashion industry, both as designers and leaders. In recent years, the fashion world has seen a growing number of women in top positions, from creative directors to brand founders. These women are not only challenging the status quo but are actively shifting the way fashion is approached and consumed.

The rise of sustainable fashion, inclusive sizing, and body positivity movements shows that women are increasingly taking fashion into their own hands. Social media influencers and independent designers are pushing boundaries and advocating for clothing that reflects their unique styles, needs, and values. In this way, women are already creating fashion that is not only for men’s approval but designed with themselves in mind.

In the future, fashion could become a more personalized experience. Technology, including 3D printing and digital clothing, could allow women to design clothing that fits their exact body types, preferences, and lifestyles. Fashion for women, by women, might focus more on self-expression, comfort, and practicality, while still celebrating creativity and individuality.