Susan Says: Let's Hear It For the Boys

We talk a lot on our blog about mothers and daughters sharing clothes, but can you share clothes with your husbands, sons and significant others? A very fashionable (female!) sales associate with whom I work gave me some great advice:  Shop the boys and menswear departments.  This tip also was featured on The Today Show the other day when Lilliana Vazquez extolled the virtues of raiding your husband's closet.

Here are the best examples:

Blazers:  Think Brooks Brothers.  A beautiful classic blazer can be yours in the Boys Department.  A size 18 (the largest boy's size) will fit a woman's size 8-10.  The model on The Today Show wore a madras blazer which is currently at Brooks Brothers retailing at $90.  

For some inspiration, check out Reese Witherspoon, who modeled a Brooks Brothers boys blazer on a cover of InStyle Magazine:

Reese Witherspoon in a Brooks Brothers Boys Blazer InStyle Nov. 2009

Brooks Brothers 'Prep' Suit Jacket $89.90 @ Nordstrom

Shirts: I have purchased Ralph Lauren boys shirts in size 10 (I wear a women's size small).  Men's Lacoste shirts in size extra small is another one of my favs.

Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Boy's Polo Shirt $39.50 @ Ralph Lauren

Shorts:  For comfortable, relaxed shorts, go to chubbieshorts.com and snare a pair of these men's shorts with elasticized waist and pair with a slouchy sweater to cover. Add jewelry to complete the look.

Chubbie Shorts $59.50 

Bow Ties:  Look for pastels, polka dots or florals and wear with a flirty skirt and flats. How adorable is this one from Barneys?

Barneys New York Bold Floral Bow Tie $80

When shopping the Internet for menswear, be sure to check the measurements against your own and size down for a shrunken, body hugging look.

Shopping in the men's and boys' department is a good way to recession proof your fall shopping for high-quality fashion at great prices- and who knows? By hanging out in the men's department, you could even find romance!