Power suits are a favorite of the working woman. Look sharp in an instant with a sleek blazer and pants or pencil skirt. Coco Chanel is deemed the first designer of men’s wear for women. She created the first women’s suit. Since then, suits have become synonymous with the female executive. Power suits became a staple for working women in the 1970s and 1980s. Suits are a classic look that never goes out of style. Professional, smart and strikingly bold suits can be worn in a variety of different ways. More than just the black or gray pants suits, there are lots of options to fit your style.
The Classics
Start with the classic looks. Every closet needs the signature basics. Black, gray, and sharp navy are all classic looks for suits. Navy is a clean, snappy shade for a suit. Navy is a year-round color for a suit, and can even get nautical this summer when paired with white or some stripes. Gray suits are a must for any wardrobe. Gray is a smart choice for a suit and can be paired with a bright bag for a stylish combo. The most traditional and practical look is the simple black and white suit. This summer, try a white suit instead of the long-established black suits. White remains revered while being very trendy right now. The classics can be worn any season and they are timeless looks for professional attire.
CORBUSIER Carlisle Style #105529
Pinstripes lend this tailored jacket modernity and sophistication. Featuring a deep-V collar with removable Grey center front detail and shoulder pads, this piece is a must-have for a day-to-evening transition.
ATLANTIC Carlisle Style #305764
Another classic crepe blazer gets an added level of detailing thanks to chic fagoting along the seams. Paired with the ATLANTIC skirt and you are work-ready in a polished classic suit.
VICTORIA ETCETERA Style #205502
Texture and a touch of stretch lend something truly special to this jacket and skirt suit. This suit has matching pant and dress; it’s a classic that does more than double-duty.
Classic? Not exactly. The trend is plaid. The pattern, an exquisite windowpane of black, white and rose that flatters and elevates your look.
Go Pink
Yes, in 2018 pink is in! If you want a feminine and flirty way to wear a suit, simply go pink. Pink is a great color for this spring and summer. It remains a professional look for the office while being a more subtle way to wear a power suit. The boxy, masculine look of blazers and trousers in a classic feminine color is a perfect contrast.
Add classic romance to your wardrobe with this single-breasted blazer with lace details. The APPEAL pant creates a lovely suited look.
FLAMINGO Carlisle Style #305879
Moto-inspired zip-front jacket in Italian stretch linen has a bold color and a stylish peplum that amplify your fashion edge. Be ready for compliments on this amazing power suit silhouette.
Impeccable tailoring and a pretty pastel pink plaid make this peplum blazer a fabulous summer addition. Paired with the NUANCE pant and your traditional suit has a modern flair.
Preppy Tweed
Time-honored tweed is standard for suits. Tweed is an ultra-sophisticated and old-fashioned style that has been refreshed from stuffy to stylish. It always looks elegant and fashionable, especially in suit attire. Tweed can be bold colors or more subdued either way, it is a chic way to done a power suit. Mix textures with a tweed suit and a smooth leather bag for a polished office look. See our “Modern Tweed” blog here.
DELANCE Carlisle Style #305618
You’ve got the ultimate in versatility and sophistication with this reversible English tweed jacket. Paired with the DELANCEY dress for a layered suited look.
This cropped jacket in textured tweed is a classic with a dash of feminine. Detailed with fringed ruffles and a peplum, this piece creates the suit when worn with the BROOK dress.
Striking Stripes
Slip on stripes for a ready to work look. Striped suits are elegant and formal. There is something about stripes that just looks so well-defined. Stripes can be very flattering as well and in fact, they can be slimming when properly chosen. Graphic stripes are cleverly placed for a slimming look. Vertical stripes are also great for elongating your legs. Stripes can be simple, yet really stunning and can even add some drama to your suit. See “We’re Seeing Stripes, Again.”
Crafted of striped stretch cotton seersucker, this modern blazer features panels, seaming and a bottom band for a clean fit and silhouette. Suit up with the matching pants!
Bring excitement to the workplace with your extraordinary style. This stretch cotton blazer and matching skirt are ready for business with details that give your look sartorial savvy.
Suits don’t have to be boring at all. Break from convention with brilliant colors! Brightly colored suits are sure to stand out while remaining appropriate for a day at the office. The power suit is even more dominant in a vivid hue. You can showcase your style with suits in any color or print. If black isn’t for you, then go with a brightly colored suit. Stand out even more in the energetic color of the season like teal or fuchsia.
Happy suiting!
Come see the Summer Carlisle Collection. It’s in the studio from April 18 through April 30. We’d love to see you!