Suits continue to make waves on runways and streets alike, proving that confidence has a style of its own.
There’s something powerful about a woman in a suit. Once considered serious and rigid, suits have evolved into a fashion statement that reflects confidence and self-expression. For the modern Nigerian woman, it has become a wardrobe staple, worn to meetings, events, creative spaces, and even nights out.
The recent resurgence of suits on the runways of Lagos Fashion Week and other international fashion weeks has only cemented their status as both trendy and timeless. Modern suits are all about precision and attitude. They aren’t concerned about rules, only about how good you look.
Suits began as men’s court wear, comprising structured coats, waistcoats, and trousers. Over time, especially during the Industrial Revolution, the modern men’s suit emerged and became a symbol of professionalism and power, worn by businessmen, politicians, and industry leaders. For the longest time, suits were considered exclusively male attire.
As more women made their way elegantly into corporate and political spaces, wearing a suit became a way to be taken seriously in male-dominated rooms, a reality that still exists today. However, women have since redefined the suit, turning it into a fashion statement of its own.
Suits aren’t always as straightforward as they seem, especially when it comes to understanding the different types. Stick with us until the end as we break it down and show you how to style your own power suit.
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A guide to women’s suit styles
Suits aren’t one-size-fits-all. Knowing the different types helps you pick the right suit for the occasion, your mood, or the statement you want to make. No matter the look you’re going for, there’s a suit for every you.
The classic tailored suit
In Gen Z terms, the classic suit is the OG. With a fitted blazer, straight-leg or slim trousers, and coordinated neutral colours, it’s the blueprint for every suit style that followed.
Oversized suit
Designed with ease in mind, the oversized suit moves away from sharp tailoring and embraces volume. Inspired by classic menswear, the oversized suit gives the feeling of wearing your dad’s suit. Boxy blazers and loose trousers shape the look, keeping it relaxed, modern, and elevated.
Skirt suit
A skirt suit is precisely what it implies: a classic suit outfit with a skirt instead of trousers. It features a coordinated jacket and skirt. The skirt can take many forms, from pencil and A-line to mini or maxi, allowing for both professional polish and personal style.
Suit dress
Traditionally, a suit dress consists of a jacket and a matching skirt worn together. Modern versions often take the form of a “blazer dress,” a single piece with suit-like details that can be worn on its own.
Three-Piece Suits
The three-piece suit consists of a blazer, matching trousers or skirt, and a classic inner shirt, with an additional layer. This inner layer is either a matching vest or waistcoat—worn beneath the jacket. This extra piece creates an ultra-sophisticated look that makes you look very refined.
Tuxedo (Le Smoking)
In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent introduced the iconic female version of the male tuxedo — a formal men’s suit designed for evening wear, known for its sharp tailoring and satin or silk details. The design combined masculine tailoring with feminine sensuality, challenging fashion norms and becoming a symbol of female confidence, liberation, and timeless style. It features a more feminine collar, a cinched waist to flatter the body, and sleek trousers designed to elongate the legs.
Bermuda short suits
If long, straight-leg suits aren’t your thing, the Bermuda short suit is a perfect alternative. It pairs a blazer with Bermuda-length shorts, usually knee-length or just above the knee. The result is a casual-chic look that’s good for warm climates, creative offices, or stylish daytime events.
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How to pull off the woman-in-a-suit look
A suit works best when it feels intentional. The right fit, styling, and attitude turn it into a look that feels confident, current, and entirely your own. The good news? Suits are versatile, and there’s a way to style each type, so it feels modern, effortless, and distinctly you.
Play with fit and proportions
Your choice of fit says a lot. A classic suit works best when tailored to your body, while oversized suits create that “borrowed-from-your-dad’s-closet” energy. Select a new look every time to present a dynamic version of yourself.
Layer intentionally
Adding layers such as a vest, a sleek turtleneck, or even a bralette under your blazer can elevate your look. Think about textures too: instead of a standard cotton button-up, opt for silk or even satin and watch a sharp suit feel instantly more relaxed and versatile.
Accessories like a pro
Accessories can take a suit from purely professional to effortlessly stylish. Statement earrings, gold chains, bold belts, structured bags, chic heels, and sunglasses—the list goes on. Don’t be afraid to experiment with accessories and add a touch of bling to elevate your look.
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Shoe game matters
The kind of shoe you pair with your suit can totally transform the look. Each style works differently depending on the suit. Heels are the perfect companion, while sneakers give you that millennial-boss-trying-to-look-cool-with-her-Gen-Z-employees vibe. Match your shoes to the suit’s mood and your plans for the day—your footwear can completely change the energy of your outfit.
Colour & prints
Neutral suits are timeless, but don’t shy away from colour, patterns, or unexpected fabrics. A pastel blazer, pinstripes, or even a velvet finish adds personality while keeping the look polished.
The power of the suit
Once a symbol of male power, the suit has evolved into a bold expression of style, authority, and autonomy for women. The modern suit is styled as a reflection of individuality. Paired with the right shoes, accessories, and attitude, and you’ve got more than an outfit — you’ve got a look that commands attention and radiates confidence whenever you step into the room.
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