Suits you:
The tuxedo-style silhouette is making a comeback, and looks far sleeker and more modern than its 80s counterpart, writes Meadhbh McGrath
The blazer-dress of the 80s is back, and sleeker than ever
After a summer of belowthe-knee hemlines, bateau necklines and a blush colour palette, Meghan Markle shook things up last month in a structured minidress by Canadian designers Judith & Charles. It was a major style statement from the new Duchess of Sussex (far right), who has been accused of playing it safe so far with by-thebook updos, sheer tights and demure dresses. For a charity performance of the hit musical
Hamilton, Meghan opted for a black, doublebreasted tuxedo dress, with bare legs and her signature messy bun. It was a little bit sexy and very glamorous, and may have doubled up as a declaration that she cannot be told what to wear, following rumours Harry had ‘banned’ her from wearing tuxedo-style suits as they weren’t “traditional enough”.
The Meghan effect is in full force, and her outfit has sparked renewed interest in the blazer dress, an 80s style staple.
Where it was once oversized, with dramatic padded shoulders and flashy buttons, the look is now sleek and sophisticated, with a neatly tailored fit. It’s the ultimate 2018 power dress. At Alexander McQueen, creative director Sarah Burton described her designs as “soft armour for women”, including an elegant black gown with scarlet corset detailing. Cate Blanchett wore a floor-length version for the Cannes Film Festival this summer (right).
Alexander Wang offered a contemporary version of the 80s executive look, deconstructing the blazer dress and embellishing it with zips. His dresses were short, but you can find kneeskimming options for a more demure take on the trend.
While Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner can get away with the ‘forgot my trousers’ look, pay attention to the cut and fit of your dress. Avoid anything very square: try a style that narrowly skims the body, or one that’s nipped in at the waist for a fit-and-flare shape.
The blazer dress is your one-and-done eveningwear solution. It’s instantly fresher than a regular LBD or wrap dress and it looks feminine, sexy and powerful at any age or size.
Plain black is the simplest and most straightforward. It’s easy to style —
follow Meghan’s lead and stick to sharp black courts and a pair of glitzy gold earrings for fail-safe chic. The shiny lapels of Reiss’s dress add party-ready glamour, so you can keep the rest of the outfit streamlined.
If you prefer a more modest look, longsleeved versions like Karen Millen’s provide coverage, plus the asymmetric hem is very now.
Block colours, particularly jewel tones like & Other Stories’ green dress, will also work well, dressed up or down, depending on the event.
Printed versions may recall the garish graphics of the 80s for some, but this season’s heritage checks will ensure a contemporary look. White accessories stormed the autumn catwalks, and will bring a modern flourish to your blazer dress.
A conservative style like Zara’s navy dress is suitable for daywear too. It’s polished enough for evening with a pair of strappy heeled sandals, or you can tone it down with white trainers and a minimalist handbag for off-duty. Saint Laurent’s platform boots are set to rule this season, and Topshop has a very cool budget-friendly option to amp up your power dress.