7 items to perfect the soft boy aesthetic
Photo: @harrystyles/Instagram
From Harry Styles and Conan Gray to K-pop sensation BTS, men’s fashion and representation in mainstream media is no longer confined to butch personas. The resurgence of the soft boy aesthetic – a style of fashion that is geared towards guys who want to show off their sensitive and/or artsy sides – allows men to explore a less rigid sense of what it means to be (and dress) like a man.
Below, we’ve picked out seven fashion items that you can mix and match into your wardrobe to look every bit like a soft boy.
Gucci green wool GG cardigan
Photo: Gucci
A cardigan is a style staple for all soft boys, and this long-sleeved rib-knit wool cardigan in green will especially suit those with a pale complexion. The embroidered logo at the chest and welt pockets at the waist adds to the soft boy’s nerdy and soft-spoken charm.
Available on ssense.com
Retrosuperfuture Numero 61 Argento
Photo: Retrosuperfuture
Soft boys often use accessories to appear more artistic and scholarly. Invest in a pair of quality optical frames such as these rounded, wide silhouette glasses that sit between classic and modern minimal.
Available on retrosuperfuture.com
Dries Van Noten orange floral pocket shirt
Photo: Dries Van Noten
Floral motifs correlate to femininity, so be sure to have plenty of these in your closet. This short-sleeve semi-sheer shirt with multi-coloured floral patterns give off an ambiguity that is exactly on brand.
Available on ssense.com
Champion Big Sky tie-dye bucket hat
Photo: Champion
Soft boys are generally non-threatening, non-toxic, and definitely know how to wear pastel. This tie-dye bucket hat in cotton canvas fits the bill perfectly.
Available on urbanoutfitters.com
11.11 Vboy oversized striped cotton shirt
Photo: 11.11
This oversized printed shirt with red and yellow stripes and exaggerated long sleeves gives you a nice and willowy silhouette, regardless of your body type.
Available on MATCHESFASHION
Benefit Gogotint cheek and lip stain
Photo: Benefit
The soft boy aesthetic goes beyond clothing. A tinted stain like this one from Benefit helps to recreate an effortless, sun-kissed complexion. This is smudge-proof, so it guarantees a vibrant flush that lasts for hours.
Available on benefitcosmetics.com
ADER ERROR blue oversized Pelton jeans
Photo: ADER ERROR
Soft boys are obsessed with vintage clothing. These wide-legged non-stretch denim jeans that are faded, distressed and hand-painted are right up their alley.
Available on ssense.com
