In the last two weeks, fashion rental platform Hurr has seen a steep 83 per cent increase in demand for summer suiting and co-ords, from brands such as Ganni, Aligne and Emilia Wickstead. It’s a strong indication that the workwear staple is no longer just for the office – but how can you style a suit, without feeling as if you’ve just stepped out of the boardroom?
Choose a cut that flatters your figure, whether that’s a double-breasted blazer, wide-leg trousers or a cropped sleeve. “I would avoid going too ‘on trend’, to make sure that it’s a forever piece,” advises the stylist Sarah Corbett-Winder, who founded her own tailoring brand, Kipper, last year. “A suit is a commitment and you want it to earn its keep.” Look to brands like Sandro, Sézane and Joseph for classic shapes that won’t date, in colours like navy, camel and cream.
This summer, the waistcoat has seen a resurgence, worn on its own with jeans, over a T-shirt or, for those who really want to go the whole hog, as part of a three-piece suit. “I think a full suit is a timeless wardrobe essential, that can be easily elevated for the evening,” says Una Joyce, the womenswear director at Reiss: here, both jackets and trousers come in petite and regular fits, as well as a kaleidoscope of useful colours. “This season, the ‘Lori’ suit has been especially popular,” she says. “It’s made from a white linen viscose, which is perfect for summer events, and also comes with the option of shorts instead of trousers.”