Coco Chanel and Katharine Hepburn were early adopters in the ’30s and ’40s, often wielding the outfit to subvert social strictures on women’s dressing. And every decade since, has witnessed a revival. From Halston’s fetishistic ’70s numbers and Helmut Lang and Jil Sander’s stripped-down avatars in the ’90s, to this season’s “everything goes” resurgence—whatever the era, pantsuits have always been known for their strong gender-bending vibe.
Swinging wildly from slouchy shapes to animal prints, and mismatched fabrics to broad lapels, today’s pantsuit is the farthest thing from businesslike—lighten up, it seems to say. The head-to-toe leopard print number at Dolce & Gabbana is pure power play, and at Dries Van Noten and Gabriela Hearst, the bright-coloured ensembles have a cool, distinct ’80s vibe.
Keen to pull off the pantsuit? Opt for rich, fluid fabrics and head-to-toe prints, or wear it sans a shirt like cool girls Kristen Stewart and Lily Donaldson.
Show them the pantsuits:
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Facebook image courtesy:
Georgette shirt, price on request, Versace. Silk trousers and blazer; both prices on request, Mary Katrantzou. Suede heels, price on request, Christian Louboutin
