By Katie Wright, PA Fashion and Beauty Editor
November 21, 2022 02:00
Women’s tailoring has gone through an evolution in recent years.
Once a staple of straight-laced office workers, briefcases have well and truly become mainstream. Everything from relaxed tailored looks and pleated gowns to bold jellis have been embraced by fashion-savvy youngsters and red carpet celebs alike.
Beyond the flash in the pan trend, suits are here to stay. Whether you’re looking for understated date tags or jazzy party pieces, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for you.
Fashion experts offer top tailoring tips for women…
Play to your strengths
The beauty of tailoring is that everyone can find the right cut, color and style to show off their best assets.
“If you have great legs, show them off with tight-fitting pants,” says Heather Griffiths-Benhrima, founder of Kasbah Clothing (kasbahclothing.com).
“Alternatively, if you don’t like your legs, wide leg pants create a flattering silhouette and draw attention away from the shape of your legs.”
When choosing a jacket, she says: “Big busts look great with a V-neck – it draws the eye down and creates a more flattering shape. If you’re carrying weight around your midsection, an A-line cut will dilute the figure.”
Consider your silhouette
Oversized jackets are the main trend at the moment, but if loose cuts are not attractive, choose a more elegant image.
“Taking care of the waistline is incredibly important,” says Jett Shenkman, creative director of Eponine London (eponinelondon.com). “A waistline that sits too low can kill a dress because it cuts a person in half – instead of elongating the body.”
Griffiths-Benhrima agrees: “Use well-cut pieces to accentuate your image and create a beautiful image. If you want to accentuate or create a waist, for example, use a belt or tailored jacket to emphasize this feature.
Find the right balance
A matching suit jacket and jumpsuit is the easiest way to go head to toe, the contrasting pieces can really flow.
“If you’re choosing slim-cut pants, pair them with a cropped, tailored top to create a flattering fit,” says Griffith-Benhri.
“Similarly, if your trouser figure is tighter, choose a looser cut top to balance your figure.”
You don’t have to follow current trends
New sewing styles are emerging all the time, but if you choose classic cuts and colors from trendy styles, you don’t have to follow every trend.
To give traditional shapes and fabrics a modern twist, Schenkman suggests “more trendy accessories like trendy boots and contrasting colors.”
Color and print
“Don’t be afraid of bright colors, throw them all together and enjoy the results,” says Shenkman. “It will brighten your day!”
Fashion fans have recently lost to fuchsia. The trend looks set to continue into 2023, so a hot pink blazer or suit would be a great investment.
As for shiny blazers, sharp trousers and trendy tweed dresses? Don’t just save them for special occasions.
Schenkman says, “We spend a lot on casual wear but wear less. We strongly believe that the best clothes in your wardrobe should be worn as often as possible.
Roman Vine Premium Stretch Sleeveless Jacket, £32; Black Long Sleeve Crew Neck T-Shirt, £20; Vintage Premium Stretch Hem Pants, £28
Beau Pink Co-Ord Blazer, £27; Beau Pink Co-Ord Pants, £19; Beau Pink Platform Heels, £16.10 (were £23), Matalan
Keen Black Plain Single Button Blazer, £135; Black Plain High Waist Wide Leg Tailored Trousers, £85; Gemini Black Leather Flatform Loafers, £65, John Lewis & Partners
