Power-suiting is the decades-old concept of using tailoring to enhance the femme form—creating an armor of sleekness, ferocity and power. Iconic suit warriors, from Joan Clayton to Grace Jones, paved the way. But here’s how to incorporate suiting into any wardrobe, aesthetic, vibe, and occasion today.
The allure of suiting and tailoring is that it can be worn in a myriad of ways. In a more oversize fit, pair it with a sequined blouse or a bib tuxedo shirt; or reimagine it as a crop top paired with a black maxi skirt.
There’s nothing more classically stylish than a navy pinstripe. With origins in banking, it’s a power combo that signals you mean business. Wear it as a full suit or try a deconstructed iteration of the look.
There is no definitive way that suiting needs to be styled, so feel free to play with proportion and scale. Experiment with a cropped jacket and high-waisted trousers, or pair a cardigan with hot pants.
Styling by Solange Franklin
Model: Elaine Palacio at Women Management
Model: Briana Michelle Smith at The INDUSTRY Model Management
Hair: Mideyah Parker using Pattern Beauty at Bryant Artists.
Makeup: Mimi Quiquine using Maison Quiquine at She Likes Cutie.
Nails: Aja Walton using Essie at See Management.
Stylist’s Assistants: Ore Zaccheus, Chardonnay Taylor.
Photo Assistants: Mouhamadou Seck, Alex Demarco.
Tailor: Zunyda.
Casting: Shahriyar Ghobadpour at CVILIAN.
Production: The Morrison Group.