Fashion Column: Embracing Autumn Workwear

As the end of the summer is nigh, there’s always one thing that can make that back-to-work feeling bearable: splashing out on new workwear. And this season, working the new modern version of the power suit is going to make you strut around the office like a fashion powerhouse.

Suits are no longer a staid, uptight symbol of professional drudgery, only featuring pinstripes and monochrome palettes. No, the suit is now all about expressing your individual style and making a loud and proud statement about your sartorial strength, as well as your professional prowess.

Creating the perfect suit for your personality is easy, and thankfully many pieces from the past few seasons can be recycled and updated to pull together a look that’s fun, sophisticated and quirky. The mix and match trend is still going strong, embodied on the catwalk by Gucci’s bold clashing of prints and fabrics, uniting its pieces with ’70s-like styling. Combining block-colour silk flares with bright graphic-print blouses, emblazoned belts, patterned scarves and statement coats, Gucci’s ensembles were all the concepts of mix, match and more!

If you’re into patterns, mix and match is for you. Combine block colours with bright, bold patterns, or contrast big prints with more delicate and intricate designs. Dark florals will be big coming into Autumn and Winter, and look fantastic when paired with geometric prints and striking, shape-based patterns.

If you prefer a cleaner approach, keep your suit pieces simple but look for bright and unusual hues. Dare to be bold and use those forbidden colour combinations, such as red and pink, orange and pink, and yellow and purple. You may also want to add a bit of colour to a simple suit with a bright band t-shirt; root out a classic grey vintage Pink Floyd or Doors tee and pair it under a bright red suit for a look that’s unapologetically modern, while also expressing your love of great music.

Elsewhere, feel free to play with silhouettes. The ’70s flare is back, and wide-legged trousers can look incredible when paired with a blouse. Skinny trouser suits are also big this summer, and feel free to embrace the Miami Vice lover within by rolling up your cuffs and sleeves. Pair with some patterned loafers for an edgy androgynous vibe.

As for accessories, the shops are getting their new AW 2017 coats in, and a long overcoat can transform any suit into a Vogue shoot when draped over your shoulders to convey effortless chic. Also, keep an eye out for bright and embellished bags – keep the shape and structure sharp and box-like, to evoke a modern briefcase, but go wild with patterns and colours.

Finally, never underestimate the power of a great pair of shoes. Metallic loafers will allow you to enjoy an ’80s throwback, while Oxfords will give your suit a masculine edge. Also worth considering are embellished high-heels, which will allow you to feel like an unstoppable female boss.