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FASHION INSPIRATION, TRENDS & ADVICE
 

WOMEN   |   MEN   |   CHILDREN   |   HOME   |   LABEL/MIX

STYLE SOS

The art of the suit

17 August 2018


Masculine tailoring is fast becoming the feminine silhouette du jour. The lines are blurring between what is stereotypically expected of the male and female wardrobe, which means women today are just as free to rock a suit as they would a dress without being made to feel that they are in costume. For some, entering this androgynous zone can feel like a huge step, but it doesn’t have to be – it’s time to let go of the misconception that the suit is a male item of clothing and instead, show the men exactly how it’s done. Senior fashion features editor, Charlene Barton reveals how.

So where to begin? The cut is key. You want to find a two-piece that fits you to perfection. This is where confidence comes into play – remember that you wear the suit and not vice versa. If the fit is spot on – you want it to skim not cling – you will instantly feel more comfortable and pulled together, not just in your clothing, but in your own skin, too. If you have something important to say, a well-cut suit will definitely help you do the talking.


Next, it’s styling. It’s all too easy to slot into a corporate pitfall here with strictly monochromatic tones and starchy fabrics. But what if you took a risk? Think less formal, more fun. Try a bold colour (which are big news for AW18 by the way) or swap your go-to white shirt for an animal-print blouse or chic Breton. Then there’s the shoes you pair it with: while pointed courts will never lose their classic status and are an instant power pick-me-up, a pair of studded loafers or sleek white trainers can offer a new approach that will make your look feel fresh and modern.


Finally, think about versatility. Will the trousers work on their own with an oversized sweater or logo T-shirt? And can you drape the jacket over your shoulders with an evening dress or use it to smarten up your favourite pair of jeans? These are the questions to consider when trying on different combinations – you want your purchase to have legs so that you gain maximum cost per wear. When you find the one, you’ll know instantly.



FIND YOUR PERFECT SUIT


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