Dear Mattie: Is the suit in fashion?
— Seeking New Office Fashions in Seymour
Dear Seymour: The power suit is in fashion this season. There is a sense of drama. The trend is mature and subdued. The look is professional without being over the top with fashion details. Accessories are strictly understated.
The suit is simple and tailored, but not fitted. The silhouette is rounded at the shoulders and hips. The waist is nipped in, usually with a skinny belt. It is not an angular, edgy shape.
There are two ways to wear a suit. One is the matching blazer with skirt or pant and the other is mix and matching your pieces.
Both are in fashion as long as tops and bottoms co-ordinate. The suit pieces should not contrast.
A matching suit means both the top and bottom are the same colour and/or pattern. The colours that are in fashion are dark, like black, grey, navy, green, and red. The patterns that are most in fashion are tweeds, houndstooth, plaids, pinstripe and Prince of Wales checks. There is room in these patterns for some personal expression as I have seen colour within the patterns.
Pair a classic white blouse with your suit, or inject a colour. The shape of the blouse is fitted yet relaxed. It should fit under a blazer without bunching.
The blazer is cut in a way that it is nipped at the waist.
Also, when you button the blazer, it will enhance this silhouette. The buttons may also be significant as they will be slightly larger and have styling. The blazer is shorter, in that it ends at your hip. This is not a boxy look.
There are some straightcut blazers that are slightly longer; these are worn with a dress, much like a coat. This dress takes on the same colour and pattern properties as the suit. It is a simple, narrow cut. I have seen this look with contrast - where the dress has a coloured pattern and the blazer is plain, or vice versa. There is room for expression.
I really like the style and cut of pants this season. Pants have a higher waist. You may even find some pleats to create a rounder hip. The leg is tailored; it is either straight or narrows to the ankle. Your shoes are on display, so make sure they are polished.
The most popular skirt this season is the pencil skirt, which falls into this tailored silhouette. The other skirt is the full skirt with a waistband. This skirt is great when you don't want to wear a blazer and a professionallooking blouse is all you need. The blouse must be tucked in. Both skirt styles are knee-length; this is not a mini look.
Accessories should be minimal. This relates to the amount of jewelry worn and the size of each piece. Save the larger, bolder pieces for evening. Also, shoes should match your belt. Your handbag can be a personal statement.
The power suit this season is wearable and chic. There are classic, clean lines that can be encompassed by all women in all professions.
Adieu, Mattie
Mattie is a freelance writer and fashion expert. Reach her through her Facebook page Mattie-a-la-Mode.
