Not much can compete with a suit when it comes to sartorial expressions of power.

Throughout history, the tailored two (or three) piece has, for women in particular, represented so much more than just a simple answer to the daily conundrum of what-the-heck to wear. Marlene Dietrich’s re-appropriation of a tuxedo in Morocco (1930) was a pivotal moment in the history of style and cinema; fast-forward to 1990 and, six decades later, Julia Roberts’ oversized Giorgio Armani ensemble for the 47th Golden Globes garnered equal levels of surprise and approval. 

Now, suits are everywhere. The SS18 runways were a case in point, with slick yet statement tailoring proving a recurring presence throughout show season, from New York – at Victoria Beckham and Gabriela Hearst – to Paris, with Phoebe Philo’s androgynous silhouettes for Céline.

I find it particularly satisfying when two trends collide – more often than not, the outcome is all the better for it. Pepto-Bismol pink continues to cast its blush across the palette of spring – and, with her tie-waist suit, Gabriela Hearst ensures it’s no longer the reserve of millennials alone. A structured suit silhouette makes light work of the hue's saccharine connotations.




Elsewhere, Thom Browne oh-so-cannily combines oversized suiting with joyfully bright checks – a ubiquitous motif for spring – to offset the base notes of his signature grey. When wearing so much detail, it may feel tempting to opt for simple accessories… Don’t! Throw caution to wind and clash it up with contrasting (and equally as charismatic) heels. 

After all, why let your suit have all the fun?