Why Borrowing His Clothes Can Make You Feel Stronger

FASHION

Victoria Guillou

10/23/2024

© Colonne / Pinterest

We’ve (not all) been there. You wake up in a bed that’s not your own, roll over, and there it is—his shirt, crumpled on the floor like a silent invitation. And somehow, without even thinking, you reach for it. It’s oversized, it smells like him, and suddenly, you feel more like yourself than you did a few moments before. The boyfriend shirt. It’s not just a piece of clothing; it’s a statement, a security blanket, and, oddly enough, a power move.

But what is it about wearing his clothes—whether it's a button-down or a hoodie—that makes us feel stronger? Is it the comfort of the soft fabric against our skin, or is there something deeper, more psychological, at play?

A Little Bit of Him, A Little More of You

Borrowing his clothes feels like wearing a piece of his world. It’s like you’re wrapping yourself in the essence of his life—his scent, his energy. And for some reason, that simple act can make you feel invincible. Maybe it’s because we’ve been conditioned to believe that wearing men’s clothing somehow gives us an extra edge, as if masculinity equates to strength. But let’s be honest. It’s not just about him. The magic of the boyfriend shirt is what it does for you. It allows you to step into a different version of yourself—a more carefree, empowered version. You slip on his shirt, and suddenly, you’re not just his girlfriend. You’re a woman who can handle anything. It’s a reminder that while relationships might be complicated, your personal power isn’t tied to anyone else.

Comfort with a Side of Confidence

There’s something incredibly freeing about wearing something that doesn’t cling to your body, something that doesn’t ask you to fit into a particular mold. His shirt is loose, relaxed, and maybe even a little bit worn-in. It’s not trying too hard, and neither are you. It’s like the sartorial equivalent of taking a deep breath and letting go of the need to be perfect. And that’s where the confidence kicks in. You’re not fussing with buttons or pulling down hemlines. You’re just... existing. Comfortable, confident, and strong in your skin. Maybe that’s why so many of us reach for his clothes after a breakup. Wearing them is like wearing a shield—soft and strong all at once.

Reclaiming the Power

Wearing his shirt can also be an act of quiet rebellion. It’s a reminder that, while you’re connected to him, you’re still very much your own person. You take something that belongs to him, and by putting it on, you make it yours. It’s not about possession, it’s about agency. You’re rewriting the narrative. His shirt, your story. In fact, the boyfriend shirt often ends up being a breakup souvenir. Whether it’s the ex you never want to see again or the one you can’t quite shake, his shirt becomes a part of your wardrobe. And while the relationship might be over, the strength you gained from it stays with you, like the perfectly worn-in fabric against your skin.

More Than Just Fashion

Of course, the boyfriend shirt is more than just a fashion choice. It’s a symbol of intimacy, of connection, but also of independence. It’s a quiet rebellion against the idea that you need to look a certain way to feel strong. You don’t need a power suit or killer heels (though they don’t hurt). Sometimes, all you need is a borrowed shirt and the reminder that strength comes in many forms. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for his shirt, remember: it’s not just about him. It’s about you, your strength, your confidence, and your ability to take on the world—one oversized button-down at a time.

Because sometimes, wearing his shirt doesn’t make you feel like his girlfriend. It makes you feel like you.