A Brief History of Women in Suits
The woman in a suit has always been a powerful image. From Katherine Hepburn’s trouser suits in the 1940s — genuinely scandalous for the time — to the sharp-shouldered power suits of the 1980s, to the sleek, modern tailoring we see today, suiting has consistently been one of fashion’s most politically charged garments when worn by women.
Film and television have always reflected and accelerated these shifts. When Jodie Foster’s character in The Silence of the Lambs wore those FBI blazers, it said something about a woman claiming space in a male-dominated world. When Meryl Streep wore impeccably tailored suits in The Devil Wears Prada, it turned corporate dressing into art. These are not just costumes — they are statements.
The Modern Power Suit: What It Looks Like Now
Today’s power suit is markedly different from the padded-shoulder monstrosities of the 1980s. It is relaxed. It is fluid. It is often oversized in a very intentional way. The modern woman’s suit borrows from menswear tailoring but makes it entirely its own — think wide lapels, relaxed shoulders, high-waisted trousers with a generous leg.
Colour is having a serious moment in tailoring. While classic navy, charcoal, and black remain perennially relevant, the power suits making headlines right now are often in bold, unexpected shades. Sage green. Burnt orange. Powder blue. Rich plum. These colours make a confident statement and photograph spectacularly — which matters in an age when workwear increasingly needs to translate to screen.
The matched blazer and trouser set remains the foundation, but many women are increasingly mixing their suiting. Pairing a structured blazer with wide-leg jeans is now a standard of smart-casual dressing. Wearing suit trousers with a simple fitted tee creates an interesting tension between formal and relaxed that feels very contemporary.
How to Wear a Power Suit Without Looking Like You’re Going to a Job Interview
The secret is in the under-layer and the accessories. A crisp white shirt under a blazer is the traditional route, but there are bolder options. A simple black bralet or bodysuit creates a sleek, modern look — particularly effective with high-waisted suit trousers. A printed silk blouse adds colour and femininity without diminishing the authority of the suit. A fitted roll-neck jumper underneath is a brilliant option for colder months — it turns the suit into something that feels creative and individual.
Footwear choices are enormously important with suiting. Pointed-toe stilettos are the classic power pairing. But chunky loafers have become equally iconic — they reference academic and streetwear aesthetics simultaneously and look brilliant with relaxed suit trousers. White trainers work for a more casual interpretation. Over-the-knee boots with a suit create a very editorial, high-fashion feel.
Where to Find the Best Women’s Suits on the UK High Street
For truly excellent tailoring at accessible prices, Zara consistently delivers. Their blazers and trousers are well-cut and available in genuinely interesting colours and fabrics. ASOS has an enormous selection spanning every budget — but quality varies, so check fabric content carefully. Reiss and Hobbs are excellent for quality tailoring that will last years — their suits are investment pieces worth the price.
For truly special occasions or if tailoring is a significant part of your professional wardrobe, consider visiting an independent tailor. A made-to-measure suit in a fabric you love, cut specifically for your proportions, is genuinely life-changing. It doesn’t need to be prohibitively expensive — many independent tailors offer competitive pricing, particularly in larger UK cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I wear a power suit to a creative workplace?
A: Absolutely. Style it with a graphic tee, trainers, and some statement jewellery to balance the formality with personality.
Q: What if my blazer and trousers are different sizes?
A: This is entirely normal and actually the smarter approach. Buy each piece in the size that fits that part of your body, then have a tailor make any minor adjustments needed.
Q: How do I care for a tailored suit?
A: Most quality suits should be dry cleaned sparingly. Between cleans, hang the pieces properly after wearing and use a fabric brush or lint roller to keep them looking fresh.