No longer confined to working wardrobes of the corporate world, trouser suits and tailoring have transitioned into the fashion mainstream.
We love wearing them all year round, but we’re currently obsessing over linen suits, matching waistcoats and satin co-ords, perfect for working into your spring wardrobe. From neutrals to bright pops of colour, the new season trouser suit styles are more versatile than you might think.
A trouser suit will instantly elevate your spring work wardrobe, but they’re also a great investment for any wedding, hen-do, birthday, garden party, and spring event like the Chelsea Flower Show – pretty much any occasion in the diary over the next few months. Plus, the pieces work as chic separates so you’re getting a lot of looks for your money.
Which is the best trouser suit style for work?
New slouchy styles are a clever hybrid of smartness, effortless androgyny and comfortable tailoring – all in one. Think oversized blazers and wide-leg trousers for your office capsule wardrobe. A go-to for work when you want to look put-together but feel comfortable.
Structured blazers and tapered trousers are stylish for work too. Not only are they really flattering, but you’ll feel ready to take on the world. After all, there’s a reason the ‘80s power suit was so iconic.
Which colour trouser suit should I go for?
Pick a gorgeous colour, and you’ll have trousers and a blazer to wear again and again, whether as a complete suit or as useful separates for pairing with other outfits.
Bright colours – highlighter pink, orange, blue and green – bring your look up to date and will make a statement on any night out. Simply switch out your favourite t-shirt for a crop top or camisole to show a bit more skin, taking the look from day to night.
You can’t go wrong with neutral shades either, from cool stone colours to warmer browns and beiges. Layer with tees or fitted knit tops underneath and tap into The Row inspired looks.
What should I look for when shopping for a suit?
Fabrics can switch up a trouser suit too. Swap out corduroy suits and sumptuous velvet suits for evening dressing up in winter months to summery lightweight linen suits and shimmering satin styles (very Fendi and Gucci) for the months ahead.
Here are the best trouser suits to wear now:
The oversized & slouchy co-ord
I love slouchy trouser suits for a relaxed take on tailoring, perfect for taking you from desk to drinks. Not only are wide-leg trousers comfortable to wear, they also work with different shoe options. A loafer or trainer will look just as chic as a pair of strappy heels, depending on your mood.
The laid back neutral linen suit
The ultimate look for effortlessly whispering quiet luxury, linen suits are a really versatile option for wearing to work in spring through to summer, especially when dressing for heatwaves might catch us out again. For a low-key outfit simply pair the suit with a simple tee or tank top, or to elevate the look switch to a silk shirt.
Bold & bright trouser suits
Wearing a statement suit feels amazing. It’s as simple as that. And for me, these trouser suits are perfect for occasion dressing and head-to-toe colour blocking. If you’re feeling confident, rock this at work in whichever colour suits you the best. Or, at the very least, separate the trousers and blazers for multiple everyday options.
Satin and silk suits
Whether you’re off to a garden party or glamorous dinner, look to trouser suits in elevated and luxurious fabrics such as satin and silk. If you’re more of a minimalist at heart keep your pairings simple with a silky cami or bralette.
Pinstripe power suits
Work attire for women was revolutionised back in the ‘80s thanks to the rise of the power suit, when shoulder pads and androgynous tailoring defined a new era for women’s wardrobes. Fast-forward to today, and they still make a statement. I love the fitted shape of Karen Millen’s blazer and the wide leg trousers, simply paired with your favourite white t-shirt.
Fitted & fierce matching sets
Look to our favourite Chanel-inspired dupes for statement blazers like this bold check style from Karen Millen, ready to cinch you in at the waist and give you an extra defined silhouette. Not only a smart statement look for your work wardrobe, structured printed suits like this one will bring some glam to an occasion too.
The monochrome trouser suit
If neon colours aren’t your thing, a classic tuxedo in black or white never fails to look incredible. From the ‘60s YSL Le Smoking suit to today, a monochrome suit is timeless and this suit from Next looks a lot more expensive than it’s price tag. Inspired by that original satin side stripe, I look out for extra detailing to really elevate the look. Simply add a statement red lip and you’ve stepped straight off the red carpet.
Comfy corduroy suits
Corduroy suits may seem more like a winter style, but in pastel or bright shades they’re a great option for spring too, especially when you’re not sure what the weather is going to do. Switch from roll neck jumpers and your favourite knits to simple tees by day and silky shirts for going out in the evenings and pair your suit with heeled boots, loafers or ballet flats.