The strong woman dominates the runways. Not since the Eighties have we seen such a surge on power suits. Women are empowered now, more than ever. But this time, it is more about uncomplicated yet stylish and modern looks. Women now are more confident of themselves. They are comfortable in their own skin. They know who they are and are not afraid to flaunt it.
Fashion now is more about personal style rather than ever-changing trends. Modern women prefer not to put too much effort into dressing yet still want to look young and chic. The key is to look effortlessly put-together. This time, suit designs are embracing femininity rather than the aggressive, hard-edged styles of the Eighties. Jackets are softly tailored and graceful. Some are also oversized, as if they were borrowed from your man’s closet or purchased in the men’s department.
New tailoring also appears in slouchy or unstructured silhouettes. Details like ruffles and metal embellishments in charming prints, splashy colors, sweet pastels or pale neutrals, paired in all lengths of shorts, slouchy pants, skirts worn with loosely fitted silk or cotton tees and lace camisoles are oh-so-cool.
Versions of the latest power suit appealing to different lifestyles dominated the runways of Bottega Veneta, Prada, Etro, Stella McCartney, Chloé, Ann Demeulemeester, Issey Miyake, Hussein Chalayan, Paul Smith, Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Moschino Cheap & Chic, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Phillip Lim, Alexander Wang and Rag & Bone, to mention a few. It comes in many styles, from the man’s slouchy jacket to military cavalry, unstructured silhouettes, mod bomber, the well-proportioned peacoat and academic blazer. Achieve urban chic with practical shapes. Look effortless with a jet-setter vibe in the season’s new leisure suits. The key to the summer’s look is understated chic.
The suit is the season’s power player. Flaunt female domination. Take note of these to achieve summer’s tailoring:
• For unadulterated style, keep it simple.
• Splurge on an oversized slouchy men’s tailored jacket in a nude or blush color palette. It’s the quickest style to be season-ready yet will go beyond fashion inclinations. This will definitely become a wardrobe staple.
• Roll the sleeves up to look current.
• When off duty, pair the slouchy jacket with denim. Then combine it with a tailored dress when on duty.
• White shirts, silk camisoles and soft tees are the season’s perfect pairings.
• Ankle-length trousers are the smart choice for the more mature set. Pick chic details like drawstrings and relaxed shapes.
• Shorts in all shapes and lengths are the season’s must combination with the new power jackets.
• Tailored and elegant pencil skirts are the alternative to the season’s shorts for workwear.
• For neutral colors, play with texture and fabric.
• Tan shoes, from strappy sandals to classic pumps, are the ideal accessories for the season’s tailoring.
• Personalize the new suits with a statement belt.
• For a sophisticated yet unpredictable evening look, wear a man’s suit paired with the season’s hot lingerie trend and killer heels.
• Channel men’s über-chic with their sophisticated evening accessory, a silk scarf.
• For the shoe-a-holic, now’s the time. Shoe picks vary depending on your suit of choice. Pick from flats with architectural details, designer sneakers, strappy high-heeled sandals, peep-toe heels and platform pumps.
• Get the look with the season’s latest hair and makeup. The modern pixie cut is ideal for the season’s energetic and youthful vibe. Focus on natural and easy. For a more serious look, go for the current adaptation of the Sixties bubble shape with the appeal of the Fifties pinup girl. It’s about volume and texture. Makeup is either natural or defined. Complement it with your suit of choice.
• Perhaps one of the most valuable wardrobe staples is a high-quality handbag. Please invest in one before purchasing any other trendy style. If you are just looking to buy one, go for colors like red, green, blue or yellow. It’s a statement piece and at the same time will go perfectly with any of your basic neutrals.
• Subtle details are key to extending your choices to the next season and the next.
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Send queries and suggestions to jo@joyceorena.com.