A suit is by definition a set of outer clothes made in the same fabric, designed to be worn together and yet, in the human psyche, it is synonymous with power, masculinity, business and competence.
Clothes do not make the man, yet our perceptions of a person are seized up within mere seconds- it’s pretty hypocritical we preach that it’s the inside that matters yet make lasting judgements on people based on their outerwear.
Whether it was 1920s libertines shaking off the shackles of society, actresses using tailoring to convey power and character throughout the 20thcentury or Madonna expressing herself in the 80s, a woman wearing a suit challenged societies’ perceptions and expectations furthering feminism by asserting our strength and equality. Plus, a bit of good tailoring never hurt anyone, let’s face it! The steadfast trend is back in numerous incarnations.
Checked and herringboned suits have been on point for a couple of seasons now and the trend is holding fast. This quirky jacket and suit combo comes with unusual details such as ruffles and ruched sleeves ( Maggie Marilyn suit, Gucci tote, Givenchy sunglasses, Bulgari and Cartier bracelets)
Return to 70s power in burgundy cord ( Anna Quan suit, Bec& Bridge bodysuit, YSL bag from Net-a-Porter, Chaumet, necklace and ring worn throughout)
Double or even triple denim is all the rage right now so why not go all out like this suit and do it the 80s, acid wash way? ( Miu Miu denim suit and booties, Karen Walker sweater)
Pinstriped and double breasted navy is a classic choice. Pair it with some furry slip ons for a casual power move ( Camilla and Marc suit, Bally slippers)
Sometimes the simplicity of black is all you need. Choose cigarette pants for their elongating effect on legs – just ask Meghan Markle (Nice Martinsuit, Gucci shoes)
Why not get out of bed and skip the whole getting dressed routine? Pajama suits are stylish, classy and feel incredible to wear ( Bally suit, Givenchy sunglasses, Gucci slippers, Miu Miu bag)
This post originally appeared on vogue.com.au here!
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 !
