This season it’s officially a man’s world when it comes to dressing up. With Chanel, Stella McCartney and Dolce & Gabbana all going crazy on the catwalks for gender-bending looks, there’s no place for feminine frills and frocks in your wardrobe.

Pieces most representative of this trend, such as tailcoats, tuxedos and riding jackets, have been snatched from men’s wardrobes and then toned down with precious fabrics and decoration.

But while the likes of Alexa Chung tends to get it spot on while championing a quirky tomboy look, there is a danger of going overboard… Cue Lady Gaga’s recent performance, on stage in a scruffy white T-shirt, black trousers, flat boots and Danny Zuko-style quiff.

The look should be more boy-meets-girl glam than mechanic’s apprentice. Become a boss of the trend and command just the right balance with these varying takes on androgyny.

Oh boy, this is one seasonal style that’s hard to ignore.

Tomboy tactics

Cute and understated, tomboy sexiness is surprisingly easy to exude.

Even the prettiest of day dresses can instantly be given some macho attitude with a pair of stomp-friendly flats (stiletto heels are not an option here).

Think Harry Potter for some eccentric inspiration. Slightly askew ties and round frame glasses are definitely on-trend.

For the easiest way to access this style, try teaming a buttoned white shirt with a grandad-style cardigan or blazer for nonchalant cool. Work with trousers or shorts, plus tights, to complete your girl-boy makeover.

Manly finish: A pair of chunky brogues or penny loafers are a tomboy transformer.

Boyfriend borrower

You don’t actually need a man to work this look – but if you have one, raid his wardrobe. Husbands, dads, grandads, boyfriends and brothers, beware!

This look is all about oversized pieces, which can have the added benefit of making your frame look smaller. Try boyfriend jeans, baggy jumpers, a boyfriend blazer and outsized overcoats for size.

A winter coat is your key to mannish nirvana. Look for slouchy, man-sized cocoon shapes in earthy colours with wide sleeves, which you can dress down for daytime or use to pare down glam pieces for party time.

Manly finish: Try rocking a trilby to really give the nod to androgyny.

Smart suitor

Masculine tailoring will add a ‘she means business’ edge to your working wardrobe.

Think sharp cuts, tailored shirts and Eighties power shoulder blazers for smart dressing that takes inspiration from the guys.

When a top-to-toe look feels too extreme, balance out the mannish tailoring with a feminine blouse or ladylike overcoat for a perfect gender-blending fusion.

The tailored look extends to eveningwear too, if you team mannish tuxedo jackets with plunging silk blouses and sparkly trousers. In this instance, towering heels should feature in your boy/girl mix.

If you’re trying out a tuxedo as an alternative to eveningwear, be brave and wear nothing underneath (except underwear) a la Victoria Beckham. Just make sure your man is ready to hand you his overcoat when you get cold.

Manly finish: Add a bow tie or braces to play hardball with the boy/girl trend.

Transformation tips

• Proportions are all-important. If you’re working an oversized coat or jumper, make sure it’s paired with a fitted piece on your bottom half, like skinny trousers, to avoid looking swamped in ill-fitting clothes.
• No lady wants to be mistaken for a man on the street. If you’re wearing a shirt, unbutton for a dash of feminine sex appeal.
• Mannish accessories like braces, brogues, a bow tie or trilby will add another dimension to your look, but be sure to team these with a more feminine ensemble.
• A white shirt is an androgynous wardrobe classic worth investing in. Go crisp and cotton for casual daywear, or sensuous and silk for evening glamour.
• Find trousers to suit your shape and they’ll be your boyish best friend for life. Wide or cropped trousers can shorten your legs, while trousers that sit above your waistline are good lengtheners.

Get the look

Keira Knightley wows in her monochrome red carpet outfit. Create silhouette illusions with contrast panels, like Krisp’s Contrast Panel Skirt, available in black and cream, £16.99 (www.krisp.co.uk).

Buy it now

Ready, set… Versace. The race is on to bag the designer collaboration for H&M featuring iconic pieces and prints that made the house of Versace legendary. Set your alarm clocks for November 17 when the range is available nationwide, as well as online at www.hm.com

Fashion flash

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