The Black Pantsuit
In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent introduced the Tuxedo for women.
One year later, in 1967, he designed his first pantsuit, a masculine silhouette for the female body.
He added feminine accessories and details such as a defined waist, fitted sleeves, heels, and jewellery but had the models wear a necktie.
Over fifty years later, women still embrace the idea of a pantsuit, and while colour has become the predominant trend in recent years, the Black Pant Suit reigns supreme in terms of style and timeless elegance.
No longer confined to just office wear, the black pantsuit is a beautiful addition to any capsule wardrobe.
Images courtesy of the Musee Yves Saint Laurent, Paris
At the Office
Still popular for work, the Black Pantsuit is ideal for women who want to look smart and elegant without overthinking getting ready.
Pair your suit with a neutral-coloured blouse or knit, a classic pair of heels or ballet flats, and simple jewellery.
Inspiration
After Dark
To shine, add some glitz and glam to your Black Pantsuit by wearing a sheer blouse or embellished top.
Throw on some strappy sandals, sparkly jewellery, red lipstick, and you’ll be the belle of the ball.
Inspiration
On the Weekend
Spending a weekend in the city? Don’t discard the Black Pantsuit.
Wear the trousers with an understated white T-shirt and trainers. The jacket will provide warmth and style if the weather is a little cool.
You can also break up the pantsuit by wearing a leather or denim jacket with the trousers. Many women don’t mix and match their suits, afraid one item will be worn more quickly than the other. In this case, make sure to dry clean the individual items as a suit simultaneously.
Inspiration
Selecting the Perfect Black Pantsuit
Fit is key. A well-tailored suit should look sharp and crisp. It should be neither too tight nor too loose.
- Trousers should have a clean fit and fall straight from the thigh. The jacket should not pull across the shoulders or midsection.
- Invest wisely. There are plenty of affordable options which help the hip pocket. Do not put yourself under financial stress for clothes. Choose the best quality suit you can afford. A simple way of elevating the look is to change out the hardware, but again, keep it simple and stylish.
Don’t fall victim to trends.
- Elegant and classic is best. Avoid embellishments such as contrasting stitching and overly broad or narrow lapels.
Caring for Your Suit
- If the pockets are sewn shut, keep them shut! Please do not put anything in the pockets (including your hands); it ruins the silhouette and can permanently stretch it. Bulging pockets are not a good look.
- Use quality wooden coat hangers that keep the shape of your suit.
- Use a garment bag to store your suit. Cedar blocks will protect your suits from harmful moths and insects.
- Avoid excessive dry cleaning of your black suit. Instead, air it for 24 hours after wearing it and invest in a steamer. These can be purchased inexpensively (under $100) from many retailers.
- Dry clean the items as a suit (when necessary), not separately. This will stop uneven wear, which can result in inconsistent fabric colour changes.
Black Pantsuit Alternatives
Not everyone likes black or can wear black.
If you have a Beige (warm) skin tone, black is not an ideal colour to wear around your face. Instead, a chocolate brown, navy or yellow-based camel suit is a better option. A navy suit will also work when paired with yellow-based tops and blouses.
A final word of warning.
There are many shades of black, so be careful when pairing your suit with other black items. Black wool is different from black linen, and black cotton comes in all shades.
Inspiration
Women who wear black live colourful lives.
Neiman Marcus
