Strong ensembles made a return as they went down the runways at Celine, Victoria Beckham and more for fall ‘18. Long gone are the days of dreary designs: Power suits now come in chic and statement-making designs. But aside from the physical features, we’re all-in when it comes to suits for the way they make you feel. Empowered. Confident, Strong.
So in the spirit of the strength these suits present, we’ve selected 10 two-pieces which scream confidence and add that extra sassy spring in your step. Swipe for bold, beautiful colours, crisp silhouettes and sleek fits to elevate your work wardrobe.
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In an rich red hue, this polyester blend suit has a double-breasted blazer with an open lapel neckline to show off your collar bone, so be sure to pop on some highlighter. The long sleeves have a little slit detail in the middle, whilst the front of the blazer features double welt front pockets and six lined buttons. These mid-waist fitted trousers feature a little delicate frill detail at the waist, front pockets and two false welt pockets at the back to match the blazer.
Style tip: Bring out your inner retro queen and pop on cat eye sunglasses for extra style points. Of course, this look wouldn’t be as rich without a bright red lip. For shoes – add some contrast by wearing either white or black, or even glossy silver heels.
Blazer, $119; Trousers, $69.90 from ZARA.
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The notched collar neckline that draws attention to your decolletage, relaxed fit and more importantly, the vertical lines which give the illusion of a longer body. Unlike the other suits in this list, this blazer comes with a tie to keep everything together. For comfort, the bottom half – which are culottes – are mid-rise and have an elasticated waistband. Both the top and the bottom are made of 100 percent polyester.
Style tip: If you don’t feel like wearing the tie, bring it to the back and tie it, then fold your sleeves for a look that’s still office-friendly. Make use of the lengthening effect and wear black pumps. Bring life to this look by wearing red or pink lipstick.
Blazer, $39.90; Culottes, $35.90 from ZALORA.
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The blazer is coolmax – meaning that it won’t be as warm as your usual blazers but significantly cooler and lightweight. The strong shoulder padding and double collars pack a punch. The pants have that same effect – skinny at the top and flared at the bottom with little splits for a little edge. It’s a match tailor-made in heaven… get it?
Style tip: Balance out the two opposite colours by wearing a white blouse beneath, and black heels similar to how G2000 styled it. Since the blazer’s sleeves aren’t long, be sure to pop on your favourite watch.
Blazer, $129; Pants, $69 from G2000.
ALSO READ: GET THE MOST FLATTERING DENIM JEANS FOR YOUR BODY TYPE
Made of a polyester spandex blend, the double breasted blazer comes cut for an oversized fit. The slits which go all the way down the inner arm give a cape-like effect that adds flow to this sharp, clean-cut blazer. It features front pockets so you can (fashionably of course) tuck your nimble hands away.
In the same earthly-yet-bright yellow hue, the pants are made of a polyester spandex blend – meaning you get some extra stretch and a dash of comfort. Like the blazer, the pants carry on the clean-cut feel with lines down the middle of the legs – giving your ensemble the sleek look while elongating your figure at the same time.
Style tip: On normal work days (or weekends), keep it simple but bold by balancing these pants with a monochrome outfit.
Blazer, $64; Pants, $44 from Pomelo Fashion.
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Woven with breathable wool, the blazer has padded shoulders on its blazer and fabric-covered buttons which both add definition to the loose-fitting suit.
The pants, also woven with soft wool, sit high and mighty on your waist before falling into a gorgeous, endless sea of fabric – well almost. It’s cut to give it a cropped, wide-leg design that we’re absolutely in love with.
Style tip: For off-duty occasions, wear them with a plain white tee or graphic monochrome tee (yes we’re talking about Dior’s totally #girlboss tees) and white sneakers or mules. Otherwise, put on some elegant yet killer black pumps to elongate your figure even more.
Blazer, US$512; Pants, $357 from Net-a-Porter.
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This MANGO set embodies minimalism at its best with simple, clean-cut designs. The angled welt pockets at the front subtly flatter your waist while the hourglass-like cut adds flow and gives the illusion of a smaller figure. Both the blazer and trousers are made with 100 per cent polyester. The trousers are high-waisted with two pockets and dart details at the waist.
Style tip: The trousers are pretty long, so to avoid turning them to floor sweepers, wear white, pointed high heels – this helps to maintain the elongated effect. Otherwise, you could also opt to wear platform sneakers. Emphasize the blazer’s silhouette and wear a v-neck blouse beneath.
Blazer, $99.90; Palazzo trousers, $89.90 from MANGO.
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There’s no way we could’ve done this piece without a good ol’ checked suit. This H&M two-piece is gently tailored for a ever-so-slightly loose fit. In a textured weave, the double-breasted jacket has notch lapels, welt front pockets and buttons on the cuff (decorative and front. The trousers, in a stretch weave, have a regular waist, side pockets and tapered legs for a more modern finish to the classic.
Style tip: Take a cue from Raquel Calderon – a Youtuber, singer and actress – who wore her suit with an equally empowering graphic tee that reads Katy Perry’s famous “Hear Me Roar” quote. Add a splash of colour to the monochrome ensemble by wearing a bright lip, but go for black loafers to maintain the classic look.
Blazer, $94.95; Trousers, $44.95 from H&M.
Photo: H&M, Raquel Calderon/ Instagram
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The blazer, made of white grain de poudre wool, has strong, structured shoulders and strategically placed pockets to flatter your waist. It also features a single button and double vent – so your shirt or blouse underneath will not be creased. The pants, also made from white grain de poudre wool, are cut with a flattering cropped hem and have a slender silhouette.
Style tip: Wear yours to formal events with white pumps to tie in the suit’s colour, or black stilettos for a contrast. Beneath your blazer, wear a white cami (or black for a twist) with a little peek-a-boo lace for flair.
Blazer, US$1932; Pants, US$906 from Net-a-Porter.
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Although this gentle pink suit has a loose cut, the padded shoulders and notch lapels add structure to it, so you won’t look like you’re just drowning in this. With a centre vent at the back, you most likely won’t be drowning in sweat either. We love the matching pants which again, can be worn with other tops. They have a high-rise waist, pleats and a tapered fit.
Style tip: Take it a step further and brighten up the rest of your ensemble by wearing white heels and carrying a matching white bag alongside it. Wear a boatneck blouse to add structure, or a white turtleneck top for your own little twist.
Blazer, $50; Trouser, $32 from ASOS.
ALSO READ: GET THE MOST FLATTERING DENIM JEANS FOR YOUR BODY TYPE
Made of soft touch corduroy (ribbed velvet), this suit brings you back to the 70’s with a classic cut and unique texture. In a warm autumnal hue, the blazer has notch lapels, side pockets and a button fastening – though we suggest leaving this unbuttoned. The mini skirt is high rise with a button placket, and has the same ribbed velvet fabric to keep it all matchy-matchy, just how we like it.
Style tip: The rusty orange shade is a bit hair to pair with, so go simple and wear a plain white tee beneath, and white heels or sneakers to match. Keep up the 70’s vibes with gold hoops and slim, cat eye sunnies.
Blazer, $99; Skirt, $50.40 from ASOS.
ALSO READ: GET THE MOST FLATTERING DENIM JEANS FOR YOUR BODY TYPE