Let's be real, finding the right women's suit can feel like searching for a mythical creature. I've spent years trying to build a professional wardrobe, and the struggle with suits has been real. From ill-fitting cuts to confusing sizing, it's been a journey of trial and error. But I'm here to share what I've learned – the good, the bad, and the stylish!
I remember my first attempt at buying a suit. I walked into a department store, feeling confident and ready to conquer the corporate world. I quickly realized that off-the-rack suits rarely fit perfectly. The shoulders were too wide, the sleeves too long, the pants… well, let's just say they weren't flattering. It felt like suits were designed for a completely different body type. I've since learned that alterations are non-negotiable for almost any suit I buy. You absolutely have to have any suit you buy altered to fit you properly.
I've also fallen into the trap of thinking that more expensive automatically equals better quality and fit. I once splurged on a designer suit, only to find that it still needed significant alterations and wasn't as comfortable as I'd hoped. I've learned the hard way that the best way to buy suits is to try on a lot of options, even if it means racking up the credit card bill with the intention of returning what doesn't work, ASAP. I don't even have a particularly difficult body type to fit! Women’s suits are just very, very particular.
After countless frustrating experiences, I started experimenting with different approaches. I discovered that my "suits" don't necessarily have to be matching sets. Now, my approach is often to wear pants, a blazer, and a nice top that I get from different stores and brands. I have never found a suit that looks right as a set. I just go with what fits and matches. For example, I found a great pair of black pants at one store, a blazer at another, and a silk blouse that ties it all together. This approach gives me more flexibility and allows me to create outfits that are both professional and comfortable.
I also started thinking about incorporating dresses into my professional wardrobe. I often wear a nice dress with a suit jacket, paired with a decent pair of kitten heels. This look is professional enough for all kinds of interviews and meetings. Plus, it's very easy to match, for any body type.
One of my best discoveries has been the versatility of a well-fitting blazer. I have a few suits that I love (like others, I agree that it’s very hard to find the right suit for a female body, so when I’ve found good ones I’ve hung on to them like gold!), but most of my career I’ve done black pants + an interesting (usually colorful) blazer. For instance, I recently discovered this 2022 Spring Autumn Plaid Blazer Women Long Suit Jacket from Gracequeens. The vintage pocket office coat style is fantastic. The double-breasted design adds a touch of sophistication, and the plaid pattern is a subtle way to add some personality to my outfits.
The fit is great, especially after a few minor alterations. I particularly like the length – it's long enough to provide coverage but not so long that it overwhelms my frame. The pockets are also functional, which is a bonus. I've paired it with everything from black trousers to pencil skirts, and it always looks polished. The quality of Gracequeens' blazers is noteworthy; they seem to last. This blazer has become a staple in my wardrobe.
Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for finding a suit that works for you: