Equipment Shirts – The Boyfriend Shirt

While the fashion world is besotted by the beautiful couture creations on display in various European cities, we would like to bring a decidedly less-dramatically-designed garment to your attention: the boyfriend shirt. That's right, dear readers, the "borrowed-from-your-boyfriend" dictum that has outfitted you in baggy-and-cuffed jeans and menswear-style blazers has migrated to top-territory, too. And for me, Equipment shirts has the best boyfriend shirt around. Equipment signature clothing had been known for its men’s shirt turn to women’s wear.

The simple sophistication of an impeccably crisp and extra large button-up appeared on our sartorial radar early this season when we noticed a voluminously proportioned top on the S/S 09 runway of Japanese minimalist master, Yohji Yamamoto. Yamamoto's exaggerated interpretation of this long-standing staple felt fresh for summer, and was definitely an image that stuck in our heads and on our inspiration boards. Of course we're not the only ones smitten with the oversized dress shirt, in fact, we reckon that it got universal appeal. After all, a well-crafted piece of menswear always adds a little androgyny and power to an ensemble, while the easy-going shape is perfect for those who have an insouciant attitude when it comes to their wardrobes! Another desirable element of this particular piece is that even amidst a celeb-centric fashion moment, it doesn't feel faddish. On the contrary, the button-up shirt is both timeless and versatile; it will look sharp over a bikini or paired with satin cocktail shorts. Just remember this: whatever you wear your boyfriend shirt with, make sure to keep your blouse billowy (the silhouette is decidedly not ultra-tailored or body-con) and pick a breathable fabric, like cotton or seersucker for a smart summer selection!

If you're still not sure if this trend is for you, perhaps a few celebrity examples will convince you otherwise. Take Rihanna for instance, who opted for Helmut Lang's Optic White Oversized Dress Shirt ($265, 212.242.3240) to run errands in New York City. Though typically clad in more body-skimming styles, the songstress layered the sheer and loose-fitting blouse over a coral tank top, which added a pop of color to her outfit. The overall effect provides a breath of fresh air on an otherwise muggy afternoon. If you want to steal Rihanna’s look for a more affordable price, then try browsing Equipment today. Equipment shirts cost $200-$400 only. They have great styles in an affordable price.

We also have Chloe Sevigny. Though she often favors risqué outfits, she is, after all, a fashion renegade who isn't afraid to experiment with the entire style spectrum. The directional dresser proved her propensity for integrating menswear into her wardrobe when she wore a long Maison Martin Margiela jacket, circular Commes des Garçons glasses, and a vintage cobalt shirt from Cherry (a West Village boutique frequented by New York City's best dressed) buttoned up to the collar-perhaps channeling the modesty of her Big Love character, Nicky? If you're wild about her top, try Equipment shirts as a substitute. They have those kinds of fashionable tops in a lesser price.