More than just business

POWER PACKEDPantsuits have evolved into a versatile style statement
(Photo:unique formal dresses)

Frilly skirts and dainty dresses look amazing. But there are times when you have to give them a rest. Also, they may not be apt for certain situations. Of course, there are those trusty pairs of jeans, but how about opting for something that is an effortless mix of style, power and comfort?

Say hello to pantsuits that have come a long way from being the go-to business outfit to a versatile style statement that actually means business. And fear not, for the colours aren’t restricted to blacks and greys. There are vibrant hues and pink stripes, gold prints, sequins and what not. The silhouette, too, has moved from the usual to incorporate Kimono suits, crop-tops and flowy pants.

All work and no play doesn’t seem to be the norm with pantsuits any more, as cheery stylish avatars of the trend walked down the Fall/Winter ramps and stylists recommended it as one of the hottest trends of year. From the straight and sleek power pairs to effortless chic that can pass off as cocktail staples, designers showcased a mix of pantsuits suiting various occasions and style needs. Not just that, a number of celebs also sported pantsuits, pushing the trend to an all-new high. Not to miss the self-proclaimed pantsuit aficionado Hillary Clinton, who has been a trendsetter popularising pantsuits among women.

“Pantsuits are considered power dressing in its true sense in a man’s world, be it in the armed forces, royalty or even in the corporate jungle. However, a wing of women’s fashion has been role-playing this power through androgynous styles as far back as Chanel’s early days,” says fashion designer Karan Malhotra, who showcased a couple of pantsuits in his Summer 2016 collection. “It has always been a parallel fashion statement that speaks power in its crisp style sense.”

Karan’s collection was a mix of bright elements, and one of his pantsuit designs was sported by actor Jacqueline Fernandez. “The ensemble she wore is a crossover of the jacket and a jumpsuit, featuring edgy cut-outs, and it is fun as compared to the traditional shirt-on-trousers look.”

“I believe the pantsuit puts together an effortless chic look. Since there are quite a few ways of styling it, you don’t really need to look at the age of the person wearing it, and I really feel it’s an outfit that will always be fashionable,” says designer Monisha Jaising.

Actor Nargis Fakhri recently wore a vista blue wool crepe pantsuit with golden handwoven temple borders, designed by Monisha. There’s no dearth of design experiments on pantsuits, and that’s resulted in amazing hybrid styles such as deconstructed jackets or tunics paired with flared trousers, pallid hues and bright stripes, adding drama to otherwise typical office wear, and a galore of prints and embellishments on baroque silhouettes. For instance, Gucci showcased a range of 70s-inspired leisure suits that are anything but boardroom numbers.

So, where and how to master the trend? “On the red carpet or brunch or even a black-tie event, pantsuits are very adaptable. Since the outfit screams confidence, they are essentially suitable anywhere,” says Monisha.

Karan seconds her statement, “Practically, a pantsuit can fit in almost everywhere. The choice of fabric, embellishments, colour and style decide where and how it can be styled. For instance, a grey, sand or camel tone, or even the right shade of blue suit in a wool blend, is best suited for the office space. However, a white or black one would be apt for a more formal gathering. A fabric with some sheen or embellishments can take the glam quotient up a notch, while adding a feminine touch.”

Mumbai-based stylist Surbhi Gupta gives tips on the right way to wear the trend. “Since the season is all about solid vibrant colours and stripes, pantsuits too have soaked in a lot of prints and embellishments. Fabrics such as silk, crepe and organza are in. With so much happening on the outfit, it’s best to keep things minimal on the accessories front.

Opt for a simple hairdo as well. It’s easier to pull off a neat look with pantsuits,” she says.

“However, you can also work around a bit of quirk by choosing an oversized jacket or a fitting crop top, instead of the regular suit. Playful footwear is also a great way to jazz up the entire look — choose strappy metallic footwear.” So, slip into a pair of pantsuits and revel in the mix of power and play!Read more at:bridesmaid dresses online

PLEASE keep all discussions relevant to fashion, textiles, beauty products, or jewelry.

Follow the Fashion Industry Network Rules.

It is always a good time to review fabulous fashion.

 

Hot topics of possible interest:

  Thank you for using the Fashion Industry Network.  Have you helped another member today? Answer questions in the forum. It brings good luck.