Women’s Suits & Separates Guide: How to Build the Best Business Look
In the fast-paced corporate world, first impressions count. Even before a word is spoken, our attire speaks volumes, conveying confidence and professionalism. But mastering the art of women’s formal attire goes beyond selecting the right garments; it involves understanding the nuances of etiquette, embracing your unique body shape, and exuding confidence with every step. That’s where women’s suits come into play. Whether you’re preparing for a corporate function, a black-tie event, or a special celebration, this guide from JCPenney will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration to create a look that is both unforgettable and effortlessly chic.
Women’s Suits: The Versatile Staples of your Wardrobe
When it’s time to elevate your style, a suit can easily transition from day to night. Swap out your casual T-shirt for a silk camisole in a bold, contrasting color—think creamy oyster with chocolate brown, or soft grey with classic black.
Footwear can also be updated: trade your sneakers for heeled sandals or sleek leather loafers to match the event’s vibe. These subtle styling tweaks can transform your suit from a casual day outfit into a sophisticated evening look with minimal effort.
Classy or Casual
The classic suit look remains a timeless choice. Pair light-colored button-up shirts with darker pants and jackets for a sophisticated ensemble. Add a slim neck scarf to mimic the look of a tie and finish the fit with a pair of elegant pumps. And for a more polished look, add a pair of simple stud earrings or a delicate necklace.
Choose Suits with a Tailored Fit
When choosing suits, reach for the ones that are tailor made and feature flattering silhouettes and fits. This is because if the suit sits well with your body shape, they look like they have been personally created for you. You can find elegant, classic style suits online at JCPenney from renowned brands like Le Suit, Liz Claiborne, and Black Label by Evan Picone. We offer a wide assortment of women’s suits in the latest designs, fits, and patterns to match your personal style. We also have a great selection of separates, like suit jackets, shirts, and even skirts.
Skirt or Pants?
Knee-length pencil skirts have long been a staple in women's suits, known for their elegance and timeless appeal. They offer a sophisticated look and don't restrict your choice of footwear as much as pants do. Skirts are also highly versatile, pairing well with a variety of tops and easily transitioning from casual to formal settings.
However, skirts (particularly body-hugging styles) can be less comfortable and offer less warmth compared to pants. Pants can be trickier to fit perfectly, but a well-tailored skirt allows for less margin for error. Ultimately, the choice between a skirt and pants depends on your personal style and the nature of the occasion.
Choosing the Right Color
Black, navy, and gray have long been the go-to formal colors for women’s suits. However, the palette has expanded significantly.
Styling it Right
The way we accessorize and stylize a women's suit, can help create different Your options are virtually limitless and it's entirely up to you and how you want to appear, nevertheless, here’s some inspo:
Wearing a basic tee in neutral colors like white, black, gray, or deep blue can make your suit appear more casual. For a modern twist, pair your suit with a simple white tee neatly tucked into your trousers. This keeps your neckline high and professional, while still offering a sleek, stylish edge. To further casualize your look, swap formal shoes for white sneakers—one of the most versatile options you can own. This combination transforms your suit into a laid-back yet polished ensemble.
Experiment with color—there’s a vast spectrum to choose from. Try incorporating vibrant hues like red, fuchsia, yellow, or electric blue into your suit for a bold statement. Alternatively, pastel suits in shades like pink, light blue, or turquoise can offer a trendy, fresh look. For a truly standout ensemble, opt for heels with bold designs, vibrant colors, or unique fabrics. Casual looks offer great versatility, allowing you to mix and match fun and striking combinations to create a personalized and fashionable statement.
For a Formal Suit:
To refine your formal suit, focus on incorporating classic, high-quality elements that emphasize sophistication and elegance. Pair your suit with a crisp button-up shirt in timeless colors like white or light blue. For a touch of distinction, add a silk tie in a subtle pattern or a matching color that complements your suit.
For a Power Suit:
To elevate your power suit, consider pairing it with strong, statement pieces that enhance its commanding presence. A sleek blouse or a fitted turtleneck in bold colors like deep red, emerald green, or classic black will also complement your suit. These choices reinforce a confident and authoritative look while maintaining a sophisticated edge.
To add a touch of modern flair, accessorize with eye-catching details such as a statement necklace or a striking watch. Swap out standard dress shoes for elegant, high-heeled pumps or polished loafers in a coordinating color.
A Good Bag
For casual suits, go for relaxed yet stylish options. A crossbody bag offers convenience and trendiness, while a hobo bag adds a laid-back vibe. A sleek messenger bag also complements a casual suit well. Use versatile materials like soft leather or canvas, and consider subtle patterns or colors to personalize your look.
