Fashion trends are known to be cyclical. Styles from previous decades often make comebacks in various forms. Tomorrow.events believes that the upcoming fall/winter fashion season is expected to see a resurgence of oversized power suits, blazers and coats in women’s fashion. This trend marks a departure from the more fitted and feminine styles that have dominated in recent years. Furthermore, it signifies a shift from the athleisure wear craze that gained popularity in the post pandemic era.
Power Suits Back in the Days
In the past few years, there has been a remarkable revival of enthusiasm for retro and vintage fashion, particularly drawing inspiration from the 1980s and 1990s. The fashion trends of those decades, such as oversized power suits and the corporate aesthetic, have gained significant popularity once again. These styles were distinguished by their boxy silhouettes, broad shoulders, and loose-fitting attire. The concept of power dressing emerged as a prominent trend, serving as a symbol of women’s increasing influence in the corporate realm.
1980s
The 1980s were known for the “power suit” trend, which emphasized authority and success in the corporate world. These suits were characterized by oversized, padded shoulders, broad lapels, a boxy silhouette, and wide-legged pants. Designers like Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren popularized the oversized suit trend, emphasizing a strong and assertive aesthetic. Iconic figures like actress Melanie Griffith in the movie “Working Girl” epitomized this trend. She wore oversized suits with padded shoulders, showcasing the powerful and ambitious nature of her character.
1990s Minimalism
In the 1990s, oversized suits took on a more relaxed and minimalist approach. This style featured loose-fitting blazers and trousers, often in neutral tones or muted colors. Designers like Calvin Klein and Helmut Lang embraced clean lines and neutral colors, offering a sleek and professional look for women in the workplace.
Resurgence of the Power Suits
In recent years, oversized power suits and the corporate look have been revisited in fashion. Designers have taken these classic styles and infused them with modern elements, incorporating new fabrics, cuts, and intricate details. This reinterpretation has breathed new life into these iconic looks. Celebrities such as Rihanna, Zendaya, and Cate Blanchett have enthusiastically embraced oversized suits. They have confidently sported oversized suits on red carpets and in public, further fueling the renewed fascination with this trend.
How To Style Power Suits
Styling oversized suits can create a fashion-forward and polished look. Here are some tips to achieve an ultimate look with oversized suits:
Balance the Proportions
It’s important to balance the proportions. If your blazer is oversized, opt for fitted trousers, dresses, or skirts and vice-versa The contrast helps create a pleasing and harmonious balance in your overall look
Casual Look
For a casual look, pair an oversized blazer with jeans or a skirt. You can add a t-shirt or blouse underneath the blazer, and sneakers or boots for footwear.
Formal Look
For a more formal look, pair an oversized blazer with dress pants or a pencil skirt. You can add a button-down shirt or blouse underneath the blazer, and heels or flats for footwear.
Accessorize
Add accessories to enhance your outfit. Consider belts to cinch the waist and create definition. Opt for statement belts or experiment with different textures to add interest. A scarf, necklace, or earrings can all add a touch of flair.
Play with Silhouettes
Oversized suits are versatile, so experiment with different silhouettes. Try a longline blazer paired with wide-leg trousers for a sophisticated and elongated look. Alternatively, opt for a cropped blazer with high-waisted trousers to accentuate the waist and create a more modern silhouette.
Choose the Right Fabric
The fabric of your power suit can make a difference in achieving the desired look. Opt for high-quality fabrics that drape well and have a structured feel.
Mix and Match
Don’t be afraid to mix and match your oversized suit pieces with other items in your wardrobe. Pair the blazer with a casual T-shirt and jeans for a dressed-down look, or wear the trousers with a fitted top for a more relaxed yet put-together ensemble. This versatility allows you to maximize the use of your oversized suit pieces.
Pay Attention to Tailoring
Well-executed tailoring will elevate the overall look and prevent it from appearing sloppy. Ensure that the suit is altered to fit you in the right places, such as the shoulders and length of the trousers.
Remember, fashion is subjective, and personal style preferences may differ. Experiment with different styling techniques, embrace your individuality, and have fun creating unique and confident looks with your oversized suit.
On the Runways
Giorgio Armani featured some elegant suits in their 2023-24 fall/winter collection.
In Saint Laurent’s Fall 2023 collection, oversized jackets and blazers took center stage, prominently showcasing bold shoulders across nearly every ensemble.
Bottega Veneta’s fall/winter 2023-24 collection draws its inspiration predominantly from the 90s. The collection flawlessly combines different textures and silhouettes, featuring futuristic and unconventional cuts that add a distinctive touch to the overall aesthetic.
Balenciaga infused their signature unique aesthetic into black power suits, offering a fresh and modern interpretation of this classic ensemble.
In Brandon Maxwell’s 2023-24 collection, blazers with broad padded shoulders took the spotlight, cleverly styled with both shorts and long dresses. This diverse collection offers an array of styling possibilities for the power suit aesthetic.
The fall/winter 2023-24 fashion show by Proenza Schouler showcased a notable presence of oversized blazers and contemporary power suits.
Michael Kors’ fall/winter collection featured a stunning array of oversized coats and power suits that captured attention.
Oversized power suits and blazers have transcended the runways and are now making waves beyond the fashion shows. A prime example is the stunning blazer worn by Gigi Hadid at the Prada fashion show earlier this year, showcasing the allure of this trend.
At the Red Carpets
Met Gala 2023
Emma Chamberlain donned an exquisite light blue matching set by Miu Miu, exuding elegance. Her ensemble consisted of a cropped blazer with padded shoulders and extra-long sleeves, expertly paired with a floor-length maxi skirt featuring a daring thigh-high leg slit. This look serves as a flawless representation of the contemporary interpretation of the power suit.
Brittney Griner, a basketball player for the Phoenix Mercury, and her wife Cherelle Griner made a remarkable debut at the Met Gala, showcasing custom Calvin Klein ensembles. Brittney radiated elegancce in a beige coat, complemented by matching trousers and a sheer top. Cherelle looked graceful in an elegant strapless white dress, completing their captivating appearance.
SAG Awards 2023
Actress Ariana DeBose graced the scene in a mesmerizing hot pink Prabal Gurung suit that accentuated her beauty. The perfectly executed oversized jacket and flared pants aligned flawlessly with the current fashion trend, showcasing her impeccable sense of style.
Oscar Luncheon 2023
Cate Blanchett made a striking appearance at the 2023 Oscars Luncheon, donning a Levine Spring 2023 eggshell suit complemented by a long coat. Her choice of attire exuded elegance and sophistication, further cementing her status as a fashion icon.
In Music
Miley Cyrus exudes chic and empowerment in her chart-topping song Flowers. She flaunts an effortlessly stylish black suit from Saint Laurent’s fall 2022 collection. Her fashion choices consistently set trends and make a bold statement, solidifying her reputation as a style icon.
Oversized Power Suits by Retail Brands
The emerging fall/winter trend of oversized powersuits has caught the attention of several fashion brands, including Ella Rafaella. This brand has embraced the trend in their latest collection, offering a range of stylish oversized powersuits. Ella Rafaella’s designs can be found at popular outlets like Macy’s and Saks Off Fifth, making them easily accessible to fashion enthusiasts.
Retail brand Zara is also carrying stylish blazers following the fashion trend.
These oversized blazers by H&M are perfect to style both formal and casual looks this winter.
In conclusion, oversized suits offer a stylish and powerful aesthetic while still providing comfort and practicality. This trend embodies a sense of confidence and empowerment. Furthermore it reflects a desire for more assertive and commanding fashion choices. Tomorrow.events predicts that oversized power suits and blazers will remain in vogue for the foreseeable future. So, why wait? Start your shopping spree now, as this trend guarantees a foolproof choice!
