Style
Suit Up: Harness The Power Of The Women’s Suit
Gone are the days when this was a no-nonsense look for the boardroom only: we show you how to wear a stylish women’s suit way beyond office hours
Say goodbye to outdated trends and old-fashioned societal norms: a women’s suit isn’t just for boardrooms and business meetings anymore. In fact, it’s one of the most versatile, dependable and stylish pieces in your wardrobe – and when styled right, it can be a go-to for literally any occasion, way past your 9-to-5. From playing with combinations to adding texture and even adapting the look for seasonal weather, we break down how to make this power set work for you anytime, anywhere.
The Power Of Proportions
We’re not suggesting a bulky shoulder pad style (at least until that ‘80s trend makes its inevitable comeback), but we do recommend avoiding the tight, figure-hugging suits of the past. Oversized and relaxed fits have an understated elegance to them, so reach for a set in a light, airy fabric that’s not overly structured. The blazer should be cut just below the hips, and it should drape slightly off your shoulders with loose-fitting sleeves you can easily roll up, for that casual-yet-put-together vibe. As for the trousers, aim for a roomy, wide-leg style in a length that flows to the floor (but doesn’t pool at the bottom).
To keep proportions in check, balance things out with a trim tank, a fitted tee or a tucked-in blouse underneath the blazer, and add a pair of sleek sandals or strappy heels for a cleaner look; clunky shoes with too much visual heft will weigh the outfit down.
Also, take advantage of the extra room in the set for statement accessories. Whether it’s an interesting bag, oversized jewellery, trendy sunglasses or a fun belt cinching the waist, a couple of small details will lend more personality to the unfussy blank canvas of the suit.
[Pictured: Blazer from Aritzia, Pants from Aritzia, Bodysuit from Everlane, Sandals from Mango, Bag from Rylan, Sunglasses from Warby Parker, Earrings from Cano]
The Power Of Business Casual
Take your elevated elegance to new heights of comfort with a favourite trend of today’s top street-stylers: sporty chic. This ongoing trend proves ‘casual’ doesn’t have to mean ‘sloppy’, and it’s all in how you style your suit. Swap out your stuffy dress shirt for a cool graphic tee or, if the weather’s chilly, layer it with a hooded sweatshirt. This instantly gives your outfit a more approachable vibe, while keeping the overall ensemble sleek and polished.
For the shoes, a pair of cool sneakers – either in minimalist white or a bright, playful colour – will balance out the formality of the suit and keep you comfy, while adding a nice nod to high fashion. If you’re in full-on sporty mode, make sure your suit gives off the right energy with tiny-but-mighty details: add a baseball cap, keep your blazer unbuttoned for extra effortlessness, and stick to low-key accessories to achieve a more grounded, carefree effect that’s still pretty chic.
[Pictured: Blazer from COS, Pants from COS, Sweatshirt from Zara, Shoes from Adidas, Bag from H&M, Hat from Polo Ralph Lauren]
The Power Of Colours And Prints
While the most versatile suits come in neutral colours like black, grey, camel, navy and white, you’ve got plenty of options if you’re into a more eclectic, maximalist style – or just looking to experiment with colours and prints. Whether a vivid red suit for channelling your inner power player, a more neutral-but-eye-catching olive or a refreshing spring pastel, opt for a colour that matches your sense of style (and that you feel comfortable pulling off), and make sure to pair with a top, shoes and accessories in hues that complement, not clash.
If you want to stick to a muted palette, you can still add some depth and dimension with a suit in plaid, checks, stripes or, for the fearless fashionistas, even an animal print. Alternatively, keep it simple and solid, but rely on an interesting texture, such as a glossy silk or a bouclé wool, to enhance the overall effect. That’ll give the outfit a fun twist without stepping out of your colour comfort zone.
[Pictured: Blazer from Maje, Pants from Maje, Top from Everlane, Shoes from Hereu, Bag from Ganni, Belt from Frame]
The Power Of Warm-Weather Suiting
Heading towards high temperatures and humidity levels in full force? There are suiting options for that, too. Consider sticking to a long blazer and wide-leg trousers in a lightweight, breathable linen that’ll keep you cool and looking fresh. But if it’s still too hot to handle, switch the trousers for Bermuda-length bottoms that pair beautifully with longer blazers, and roll your blazer sleeves up (which is why a super-tailored, cropped style isn’t the best choice). This will keep you breezy in the balmy outdoors and covered in the air-conditioned indoors.
Lower the temp even further by styling with a sleeveless, 100% cotton top – or ditch the blazer altogether and go for a matching sleeveless suit vest for the same polished (but more weather-appropriate) look. Accessorise with a skinny belt, light jewellery, and a pair of sunglasses – and you’re good to go.
[Pictured: Waistcoat from Massimo Dutti, Pants from Massimo Dutti, Tank Top from Arket, Shoes from Nine West, Bag from J. Crew, Scarf from Zimmermann]
The Power Of Mixing And Matching
The beauty of a suit is that you’ve got tons of options for styling it – and then a million more. It doesn’t always involve going for the obvious coordinating set, either. When in doubt, go separate ways. This could mean mixing and matching pieces from two different suits, pairing one blazer with trousers from another set (the more mismatching, the better) for a completely unexpected ensemble.
Alternatively, you could really part ways and scrap the two-piece convention entirely. Wear your trousers with a polo shirt, a slouchy tee, a chunky jumper or even a sports bra (for intense summer vibes). Or let your blazer shine on its own over dresses or with skirts, jeans, leggings or trousers in a contrasting shade. While the girl-boss look reaches peak level when you’re suited head to toe, you’ll get more mileage out of your wardrobe (and lots of fun ways to experiment) when you style each piece separately.
[Pictured: Blazer from Theory, Pants from Theory, Dress from Faithfull The Brand, Cardigan from Omnes, Shoes from Sézane, Bag from 8 Other Reasons, Earrings from Parfois]
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