Tailored trouser suits mean tomboy charm and the return of power dressing. A slimline pinstriped suit with a tapered waist, teamed with killer heels, is a must-have for every woman's working wardrobe. We like Karen Millen's wool mix pinstriped suit which gives a flattering shape.
The pinstripe can be split up and turned into several different looks. Put on the trousers with a skimpy top and strappy sandals and go paint the town red.
Well-fitting suits are available in every price range, but to get an idea of how good a suit can be it's worth trying on an expensive one to feel how it fits and moves.
Oversized 1980s-style jackets and masculine trousers in muted colours bring a touch of androgyny to autumn/winter. Rich-coloured checks are everywhere from Rupert the Bear yellow plaid to classic Prince of Wales check. Suits get a little bit country in luxe tweed, herring bone, and wool mixes.
Meanwhile,
1940s-inspired looks
are an excuse to dress like a real woman again. Skirt suits are great for a formal, elegant look. This season they have tiny, nipped-in waists and boxy jackets in subdued prints and rich fabrics.
9
Karen Millen black
pinstripe suit. Jacket (pounds) 185, trousers (pounds) 89.95
Where to get the look: Paul Smith Women, J&M
Davidson, Etro, Next, River Island
Who should: choosing a suit with a single-breasted jacket gives a
slimming effect and looks good with the buttons done up or left undone. If you're worried about large hips go for low-waisted trousers
with a generous fit.
who shouldn't:
nobody
Hobbs black crepe wool skirt suit. Jacket (pounds) 185, skirt (pounds) 69
Where to get the look: Chanel, Miu Miu, Valentino, Ralph Lauren, Paul Smith Women, Jaegar, Escada, Autograph at Marks & Spencer
Who should: flat tum, with
waistline
who shouldn't: these nippy little sweeties can be difficult to carry off. Because the jackets are fitted and short, anyone who's pear-shaped should steer clear - the tight waist causes the peplum to lift and hang over the stomach creating an unflattering bell-shape. The pencil-shaped skirt can also succeed in putting inches on your waistline
11
Jaeger Prince of Wales
check black and white wool
mix suit. Jacket (pounds) 275,
trousers (pounds) 150
Where to get the look: Dolce &
Gabbana, Prada, and Hermes have all taken to tweed,
and Next's
grey wool-mix
herringbone
tweed suit (jacket (pounds) 79.99, trousers (pounds) 39.99) is a good staple buy
Who should: it's at its best on anyone taller than 5ft 4in
Who shouldn't: wear high heels and anyone will get away with it
12
Laura Ashley black and white
wool dogtooth skirt suit, skirt (pounds) 65, jacket (pounds) 120
Where to look: Next, Autograph at Marks & Spencer
Who should: J-Lo bums
- single-breasted styles and
slightly flared skirts will flatter
most figures
Who shouldn't: almost
everyone can wear this
- unless you're self-conscious about your legs
Sidelines When wearing a suit you should be able to hug yourself comfortably without it pinching you n Where the sleeve meets the shoulder there should be no puckering of fabric. It won't iron/steam out n Try Thomas Pink's cotton/Lycra ''slimfit'' shirts ((pounds) 79), they come in all colours and are perfect for wearing underneath a suit n For a more dandy look wear a trilby hat with your trouser suit. Accessorise does a canvas version ((pounds) 18) n Dress up your skirt suit with some long leather gloves. La Bonia do classic elbow length ((pounds) 75) available at Harvey Nichols n Flat shoes will make the 1940s-style frumpy - always wear high heels
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