Denim feathers are absolutely fantastic! They’re incredibly fun to create, versatile for a multitude of uses, and a perfect way to upcycle old denim jeans or jackets. Let’s get started on making them!
SUPPLIES
Old denim in various colors
Heavy string or twine (such as cotton baker’s twine)
Pins
Seam ripper
Scissors or rotary cutter and ruler
Rubber glove (avoid vinyl)
Sewing machine
STEP 1: CUT DENIM AND CENTER TWINE
Note: When cutting denim, ensure that your cuts align with the grain of the threads. It’s crucial for your cuts to be straight with the grain, as this will affect the final look of your feathers.
Additionally, depending on the fabric’s orientation, you’ll end up with blue feathers if cut in one direction and white feathers if cut in the other. To determine which orientation to choose, pull a few threads from the edge of the fabric.
If you pull the warp threads (the blue ones), your feather will be white. Conversely, pulling the weft threads (the white ones) will yield a blue feather. I find it easier to pull the blue/warp threads since the white/weft ones tend to be tighter and require more effort.
Cut your denim into strips that are 1.5 inches wide, then cut those strips into lengths of 3 to 5 inches, depending on how long you want your finished feathers to be.
For the twine, measure a length that is approximately 2 inches longer than the denim strip.
STEP 2: SEW TWINE IN PLACE
Using a narrow zigzag stitch with a short stitch length, sew the twine down the center of the denim strip. Ensure the twine aligns with the grain of the threads; otherwise, the “unraveling” step will be challenging.
STEP 3: TRIM TO FEATHER SHAPE
Trim the corners of your denim strip to create a rough “feather” shape.
STEP 4: PULL THREADS
Pull away the threads along the length of the feather. I recommend starting from the top, using a pin or seam ripper to separate the threads, and then using a gloved hand to pull them out. The rubber glove provides a better grip on the tightly woven threads and helps reduce finger fatigue.
Repeat this process on the other side of the feather.
If desired, trim around the base of the feather. For a straighter, more defined edge, carefully trim the sides as well.
Finally, snip off the excess twine at the end.
LET’S USE OUR FEATHERS!
Your fantastic feathers can be used to:
Adorn a pair of jeans or a denim jacket
Create feathered earrings (I added some crystal beads for an extra touch)
Decorate a gift box
Craft a fancy bookmark
TIPS AND TRICKS
Cleaning: Avoid machine washing any items adorned with these feathers, as they tend to curl up and look ratty afterward. It’s best to remove the feathers before washing or opt for spot cleaning. Dry cleaning might also be an option, but I haven’t tried it myself.
Troubleshooting an Out-of-Alignment Feather: Keep a seam ripper handy for pulling out any threads and snapping them off where they cross the center seam. It’s best to avoid this issue entirely if possible.
If you want your feathers to have a naturalistic “curve,” make sure to cut them straight with the weave, and you can create the desired curve when applying them to your finished project.
Feel free to experiment with other tightly woven fabrics or different colors of denim—get creative!
CAN WOMEN WEAR MEN’S SHOES?
Absolutely! Rocking a pair of men’s shoes is a totally cool option for women these days. Whether you prioritize comfort, a unique look, or just want to break away from traditional styles, men’s footwear can be a great addition to your wardrobe. We’ll delve into why women are increasingly reaching for men’s shoes, explore how to find the perfect fit, and show you how to style them for any occasion. So, ditch any fashion rules holding you back – let’s get you started on rocking those men’s shoes with confidence!
MEN’S SHOE WIDTH VS. WOMEN’S SHOE WIDTH
Here’s the breakdown on how men’s and women’s shoe widths differ:
Same System, Different Baseline: Both men’s and women’s shoes use letters (A to E, with A being narrowest) to denote width. But the key difference is the starting point for “medium.”
Men’s Medium is Wider: For men, a “D” width is considered medium, while for women, a “B” is standard. So, a woman’s foot that needs a medium width in a men’s shoe might need a “C” or even a “D.”
Wider Range for Men: Men’s shoes often offer a wider range of width options compared to women’s. This reflects the fact that men’s feet tend to be wider on average.
Width
Men’s Shoe
Women’s Shoe
Narrowest
A
AA or 2A
Medium
D
B
Widest
E (and beyond)
2E (and beyond)
Here’s a quick table to summarize the width difference
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MEN’S SHOES FOR WOMEN
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Size Conversion: Men’s shoes typically run 1.5 sizes larger than women’s. So, if you’re a women’s size 8, a men’s size 6.5 might be a good starting point. However, this is just an estimate – it’s always best to try on the shoes whenever possible.
Know Your Width: As discussed earlier, men’s shoes have a wider baseline width. So, a woman with average-width feet in women’s shoes might need a “C” or even a “D” in men’s. Pay attention to your foot’s shape and comfort level when trying on different widths.
STYLE SAVVY
Consider the Occasion: Are you looking for a sleek Chelsea boot for work, a cool pair of sneakers for everyday wear, or a statement loafer to elevate your outfit? Knowing how you’ll wear the shoes will help narrow down your options.
Embrace Androgyny: Don’t be afraid to play with traditionally masculine styles. Chunkier loafers, Chelsea boots, or classic Oxfords can add a cool, androgynous touch to your look.
Think Balance: If you’re rocking a more oversized shoe on top, balance it out with your outfit. Try a slim-fitting pair of jeans or a flowy skirt to create a flattering silhouette.
PRO TIPS
Shop Online with Caution: While online shopping is convenient, be wary of relying solely on size conversions. If possible, stick to stores with good return policies for online purchases of men’s shoes.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Sales associates at shoe stores are there to assist you. Let them know you’re interested in men’s shoes and ask for their recommendations on sizing and fit.
Comfort is Key: No matter the style, prioritize comfort! Shoes shouldn’t pinch or rub, and they should provide good arch support.
HOW TO STYLE MENS SHOES FOR A FEMININE LOOK
When it comes to fashion, you don’t have to stick to the usual gender rules. Men’s shoes can give your style a unique and feminine vibe. Whether you want just a bit of masculinity or a full-on androgynous look, there are many ways to rock men’s shoes with a feminine twist.
Start by picking the right pair of shoes. Look for classic men’s styles like oxfords, loafers, or brogues. These timeless designs give you a masculine feel without going too far. If you’re into modern vibes, try chunky sneakers or combat boots.
After you’ve got your shoes, it’s time to add some flair. Add a feminine touch with lacy socks or a delicate anklet. You can also pair your shoes with a skirt or dress for an androgynous style. Don’t shy away from playing with colors. Women’s fashion often sticks to muted tones, but you can stand out with colorful shoes. Go for a bold red or a soft pastel pink to add a feminine touch.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH A FORMAL OUTFIT
When it comes to formal occasions and men’s shoes, there’s a touch of elegance to be struck. While sneakers and chunkier styles are best left for casual wear, certain men’s shoes can elevate a formal women’s outfit. Opt for classic silhouettes like Oxfords or loafers in polished leather. Black is always a safe choice, but brown leather can add warmth. Keep the overall vibe clean and professional. Match your belt to your shoes for a cohesive look. For a touch of femininity, consider a pointed-toe Oxford or a loafer with a tassel detail. Remember, the key is to balance the masculine structure of the shoe with the formality of your outfit.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH JEANS
Men’s shoes can transform your denim outfits, adding a fresh dimension to your style. To craft stylish pairings, consider these key tips. Firstly, ensure that the wash of your denim coordinates with your choice of shoes. Lighter wash jeans effortlessly pair with sneakers or casual loafers, lending a relaxed vibe to your ensemble. Conversely, darker washes complement Chelsea boots, Oxfords, or even dressier Derbys, offering versatility in styling options.
Next, strive to achieve a harmonious balance between the fit of your jeans and the silhouette of your chosen shoes. Opt for slimmer jeans to complement chunkier boots or loafers, while straight-leg or bootcut styles seamlessly pair with both classic and bold footwear choices.
Embrace the opportunity to showcase your shoes by cuffing your jeans. This simple styling trick works particularly well with cropped or rolled-up denim styles, infusing your outfit with a touch of casual coolness and drawing attention to your footwear.
Lastly, the top half of your ensemble plays a pivotal role in completing the overall look. Experiment with different tops to achieve varying aesthetics – whether it’s a tucked-in button-down shirt for a polished vibe, a graphic tee for a laid-back feel, or a feminine blouse for an unexpected twist.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH SKIRTS
Fashion has no rules, so why not try something different? Pairing men’s shoes with skirts can give your wardrobe a cool and different vibe.
To rock this style, pick the right shoes and skirt. For a casual vibe, go for sneakers or loafers with a denim or midi skirt. For a fancier feel, try oxfords or brogues with a pleated or maxi skirt. There are tons of ways to style this look. Keep it classic with a white shirt, black skirt, and white sneakers. Or go modern with a graphic tee, patterned skirt, and black loafers.
Whatever you choose, keep your outfit simple and let the shoes shine. Add some accessories like a statement necklace or earrings to finish off your look. Don’t be afraid to try something new! Mixing men’s shoes with skirts is a fun way to add some edge to your style.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH LEGGINGS
Combining leggings with men’s shoes creates a comfortable and chic ensemble. The key to mastering this look lies in several essential elements. Firstly, choosing the right shoes is crucial. Opt for footwear that not only provides visual interest but also balances the overall proportions of the outfit. While sneakers offer a timeless option, consider experimenting with loafers, Chelsea boots, or even chunky combat boots for a more daring appearance.
Secondly, consider the length of the leggings. Cropped leggings pair seamlessly with sneakers or loafers, while full-length leggings accommodate boots or even dressier Oxfords, offering versatility in styling options.
Layering plays a significant role in elevating the aesthetic appeal of the ensemble. Incorporating a long tunic top or an oversized sweater over the leggings creates a flattering silhouette. The juxtaposition of the fitted leggings with a looser top adds visual intrigue and enhances the overall balance of the outfit.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH A SUIT
When you want to dress well, the right shoes are super important. They can totally change how you look, whether you’re going to a job interview, a fancy party, or just a night out. So, if you’re wearing men’s shoes with a suit, here’s what to remember.
First off, make sure your shoes fit right. If they’re too big or too small, it can mess up your whole outfit. It’s a good idea to get your feet measured at a shoe store to know your size.
Next, pick shoes that go well with your suit. If you’re wearing a black suit, go for black dress shoes. If it’s a navy suit, try brown ones. For a more modern vibe, go for oxfords or loafers.
Lastly, keep your shoes looking nice. Polish them regularly to keep them shiny. And if they’re leather, use a special conditioner to keep them in top shape.
With these easy tips, your shoes will look awesome with your suit. And with the right pair of shoes, you’ll make a great impression wherever you go.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH DRESSES
Fashion doesn’t have strict rules. Mixing and matching different clothes can make you stand out. One cool combo is wearing men’s shoes with dresses.
It’s a versatile style that you can dress up or down. For a casual vibe, wear a simple dress with white sneakers. It’s great for everyday stuff or hanging out with friends. For fancier occasions, try loafers or oxfords. They’re perfect for a night out or a special event.
Make sure your shoes match your dress style. If your dress is bold, go for neutral-colored shoes like black or brown. If your dress is simple, try bold-colored or patterned shoes.
There are tons of ways to rock men’s shoes with dresses, so have fun trying different combos. With the right shoes, you can create a stylish and unique look.
HOW TO WEAR MENS SHOES WITH SHORTS
When picking shoes for shorts, go for casual ones like sneakers, boat shoes, loafers, or sandals, depending on where you’re going. Skip fancy shoes like Oxfords and choose classics like canvas sneakers or classy loafers instead. Think about how long your shorts are – longer ones match well with most casual shoes, while shorter ones go with low-top sneakers or boat shoes to keep things balanced.
Finish off your outfit with the right top – a plain t-shirt for a relaxed vibe, a Henley or button-down shirt for a fancier style, or a breezy linen shirt or Hawaiian print for a summery touch, depending on where you’re headed. Following these tips, you can easily put together cool and balanced outfits when wearing shorts.
FAQ
1. What about socks? Should I wear them with men’s shoes?
It depends on the occasion and shoe style. No-show socks work well with sneakers for a streamlined look, while crew socks can add a preppy vibe to boat shoes or loafers.
2. Where can I find men’s shoes that fit well as a woman?
Many stores carry unisex styles or have wider width options in the men’s section. Online shopping is an option, but be cautious with sizing and return policies.
3. Is it comfortable to wear men’s shoes? Comfort is key! Choose shoes that provide good arch support and aren’t too tight. Don’t be afraid to break them in before wearing them for long periods.
4. Can I still look feminine while wearing men’s shoes?
Absolutely! It’s all about balancing proportions and adding feminine elements. Play with textures and colors in your clothes, accessorize with jewelry and scarves, and rock the look with confidence!
5. Is this trend going to last?
Fashion is cyclical, but the ability to express yourself through clothing choices is timeless. As long as you feel confident and comfortable, rocking men’s shoes is a great way to add variety to your wardrobe!
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the world of footwear is no longer bound by gender. Women rocking men’s shoes is not just a trend – it’s a celebration of self-expression and the freedom to choose styles that prioritize both comfort and individuality. With a little know-how about sizing and some creative outfit pairings, you can seamlessly integrate men’s shoes into your wardrobe, adding a touch of cool androgyny or a bold statement piece. So, ditch the limitations and embrace the exciting possibilities that men’s footwear offers. Remember, confidence is the ultimate accessory, so rock those men’s shoes and own your unique style!
