Where to Find Professional Women’s Business Suits
Q: Help! I Have a job interview coming up and I need a new suit. I would like a trouser or skirt suit, something that’s contemporary and elegant but still suitable for a very corporate environment, so in a neutral colour such as black, navy or grey. I don’t seem to be able to find a suit anywhere instore, please can you help me?!
In recent years there has been a relaxation in the dress codes for offices, away from traditional suits to more smart casual outfits, particularly for women. This had started before Covid but has definitely been accelerated by the move to more hybrid and home working since the pandemic. In my previous career as a Solicitor it was expected that we would wear a suit everyday, but even this has changed in a lot of firms to a more of a ‘dress for your day’ policy depending on whether or not you are seeing client’s face to face or spending the day in court. There are still environments where formal professional dress is still very much required and there is still a demand for them, unfortunately they are simply not a as readily available as they once were as brands have adapted to the needs and demands of the new working code so most have reduced their tailored collections.
Although the company environment may require you to wear a traditional suit, you can still add touches of your personality so that you feel like you and it makes you memorable to the interviewers. Use interest in your shoes, accessories or outerwear to give signs as to who you are. Use the Amy Cuddy Power Pose before you go in to give yourself that extra edge and good luck!
So where can you still find womens suit? Taking inspiration from Hannah’s iconic wardrobe in TV Show The Split, here I have found some timeless suits which you can wear beyond the interview either as a suit or on their own, teamed with other items in your wardrobe.
Contemporary Neutrals
The contemporary cut of the double breasted blazer and wide leg suit are given a timeless look paired with elegant neutrals in camel. The chunky gold necklace and hardwear on the bag keep it modern and interesting. The wide legs will look great with a pointed or almond toe popping out, the print on these will add a hint of personality.
Also try: Mango and Autograph at M&S.
2. Classic Colour Pop
The slim black suit and straight leg trousers are guaranteed to endure for years to come. The silk shirt is a perennial classic which can be worn with anything. The printed boots have a long enough shaft to fit underneath the trousers and add some subtle interest. The bright pop of pink is a great alternative to red and will lift your complexion and make sure you are remembered,
Also try: Boden, Karen Millen, Jaegar.
3. Elegant With Edge
A skirt or dress suit can be difficult to find, but Hobbs have a good selection of traditional fitting styles. The high nehru collar of the blouse will pair well with the collarless neckline of the jacket. The earrings, shoes and tote bag are all traditional styles with contemporary details ensuring your look is contemporary and up to date.
Also try: Hawes and Curtis, Jigsaw, Jaegar and Reiss
Where’s your favourite suit from? Let me know in the comments below. If you want help sourcing suits for your bespoke circumstances, get in touch.
