This chapter examines the growing domain of genderless practices in fashion. Genderless fashion is defined as the transcendence of traditional binary categories of masculinity and femininity in clothing design, production, and consumption, opening new spaces for inclusivity and alternative forms of self-expression. To understand how this concept has been studied to date, we conducted a systematic review of the literature that maps current research, highlights dominant themes, and identifies directions for future investigation. Alongside the literature review, we present two brief empirical case studies focusing on the companies Gucci and Gaia Segattini knotwear. The first examines the luxury sector, where genderless collections are framed as both aesthetic innovations and cultural statements. The second explores a small artisanal company, showing how genderless approaches can resonate with niche markets and support sustainable practices. Together, these cases demonstrate how genderless fashion functions as a bridge between inclusivity and sustainability, while also reshaping consumer perceptions and industry practices. The chapter concludes by outlining the main challenges and opportunities for future research, situating genderless fashion within wider debates on consumption, identity, and social change.
Unpacking Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Genderless Fashion
Marta Giovannetti;Elena Cedrola
2026-01-01
Abstract
This chapter examines the growing domain of genderless practices in fashion. Genderless fashion is defined as the transcendence of traditional binary categories of masculinity and femininity in clothing design, production, and consumption, opening new spaces for inclusivity and alternative forms of self-expression. To understand how this concept has been studied to date, we conducted a systematic review of the literature that maps current research, highlights dominant themes, and identifies directions for future investigation. Alongside the literature review, we present two brief empirical case studies focusing on the companies Gucci and Gaia Segattini knotwear. The first examines the luxury sector, where genderless collections are framed as both aesthetic innovations and cultural statements. The second explores a small artisanal company, showing how genderless approaches can resonate with niche markets and support sustainable practices. Together, these cases demonstrate how genderless fashion functions as a bridge between inclusivity and sustainability, while also reshaping consumer perceptions and industry practices. The chapter concludes by outlining the main challenges and opportunities for future research, situating genderless fashion within wider debates on consumption, identity, and social change.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
