Suits may have been invented for men but women have appropriated the codes since the beginning of the last century – Coco Chanel made her own version in 1914, Marlene Dietrich made the tuxedo famous, Pachucas women wore zoot suits as an expression of their strenght and feminism while Katherine Hepburn and Kim Novak pushed it to the forefront of the feminine psyche. Yves Saint Laurent made a formal tuxedo “Le Smoking” look more appealing than a dress, hit show “Dynasty” repeatedly conveyed women’s power with skirt suits and Grace Jones and Madonna made a tuxedo look not only sexy but rock n’roll iconic.
These days a well cut suit is an essential in a women’s wardrobe and represents an investment well spent: not only does it impart a sharp impact when worn together but presents multiple usages when worn as separates. This season, play with new codes and accessories for an updated take on the mainstay staple.
Above : Exaggerate proportions for maximum impact – oversized pants are all the rage this season, romantic ruffles add drama while silver detailing offsets grey tones ( Ellery suit, Swarovski necklace )
Choose an oversized jacket paired with ankle grazing pants for a look that’s both 90s elegance and punk rock cool, then add accessories that offset the look while enhancing it’s feminine and masculine qualities.A pair of beautiful loafers will not only match your suit but come in very handy for all those floral dresses in the upcoming season ( Toni Maticevski suit, Stella Mccartney lace bra from Net-a-Porter, Lack of Colours hat , Gucci loafers )
This season, eccentricities reign supreme but a floral strewn suit in the right designer’s hands becomes a well cut forever piece. Bonus points on breathable fabric that cools the body in the sun and ankle zips that make it wearable in 2 ways. ( Max Mara suit, Giuseppe Zanotti pumps )
Pair it back with a beautiful silk tank top and simple jewelry ( Lover top, Cartier Love bracelet, Thomas Saboo Love bridge bracelet )
Photographed by Alice Wesley- Smith
See the full story up on vogue.com.au here !