By Michelle Crowe
Katharine Hepburn, silver screen saint of suits.
It is such a gift from the fashion deities when the runways are filled with good suits. Fall 2017 is one such season. Designers drew inspiration from a variety of sources touched with bits of reflective nostalgia from decades past. That’s always welcome news as it means we can pull vintage favorites from the back of the wardrobe and feel right on trend.
Blue velvet at Tibi.
Many designers were in a bit of a 1980s power suit mood, with strong-shouldered jackets over high neck blouses and such. Fashionista.com described the vibe as “Prince meets Heathers,” and that sounds like a winning combination to us. We like the bit of irreverence employed when crafting these looks.
Love this color at Tory Burch.
The nineties also made a showing, specifically 1997, which as so often happens at the 20-year mark, is having a moment. That was a big year, fashion wise. It was the Tom Ford for Gucci era, with his louche decadent vibe and shades of Halston. It was also a banner year for minimalist masters like Helmut Lang and Jil Sander. And yes, it was the year we lost Gianni Versace, who was such a gifted tailor, actually did some wonderful suits, although they did not get the attention that his more va-va-voom dresses did.
Evan Rachel Wood in Jeremy Scott for Moschino at the Emmy Awards.
When looking at so many amazing options it can be hard not to go crazy, like someone let loose in a power suited candy store. Find the very special ones that you love and will treasure forever and ever. Real standouts like the blue velvet at Tibi, dusty pink at Tory Burch or merlot at Jil Sander. Of course, it’s probably a good idea to replenish your navy, charcoal and pinstripes now too. After all, fashion favors the bold and the smart ladies who stock up when opportunity strikes.
The slouch suit rules again at Jil Sander.
