By: Lorraine Shailer, Head of Clothing and Home, Marks and Spencer
Ladies:
Pant suits have been a favourite for designers and street stylers for some time now. However the trend seems to pick up even more steam recently. Maybe it started as a nod to Hillary Clinton, but coupled with the likes of the #metoo movement and the ever-increasing push to empower women, we have seen the trend dominate fashion pages and runways. The pant suit’s ability to combine power, style and femininity makes it a wardrobe must-have.
If you’re thinking the pant suit of the 2000s however, change your train of thought. Instead think 80s and broad shoulders, high waists and great tailoring. Wear with sneakers, heels or brogues, with a t-shirt, button down or blouse. Pant suits will take you to the office, through to dinner and the after party. Its versatility is what makes it a must-buy.
The Fall 2018 runways saw a slew of wild and wacky pant suit options, but if you want to keep it polished, smart, sophisticated, and office appropriate with an edge, go for a classic tailored pantsuit in either black, navy or grey or for the more brave opt for bold solids. Pastels are still in and pink or dusted blue look amazing as pantsuits. For boardroom ready choose a simple shirt for understated chic and pair with metallic shoes for added interest. For evening vibes throw your suit jacket over a dress adding some embellished flats for glamour. To keep it casual add a classic white tee to your tailored look, with some jewel toned accessories to add a flash of colour.
For the men:
There was a time was when brown meant drab, but think rich and warm shades of brown and you’ll have your colour of choice for the season. These hues exude confidence, sophistication and creativity for those men brave enough to wear it. Treat this wonderful colour pallete of camel, cognac and caramel to name a few, as you would treat black, greys and navys, to create striking yet versatile pieces which strike a timeless, classic chord.
Beige, taupe and chocolate were some of the key shades from the wild-west themes that graced the catwalks, with these brown based inspired hues creating quite the statement worn from head-to-toe. If you are brave enough to rock the all-over brown ensemble, then ensure there is a variance in tone to break up the look. Alternatively if you want to wear only one statement camel piece, make it a tailored blazer and pair it with neutral colours and simple designs, such as a white shirt, blue jeans, and sneakers.
