There is something special about the power of a well-tailored suit. For centuries, the tailoring of a garment has represented formality, business, and prestige but recently we’ve seen that tailored pieces are not just meant for the office. The casual repurposing of blazers and trousers, pairing them with T-shirts and sneakers, have turned these pieces into everyday staples.
Dressing down these pieces has also allowed space for playfulness when it comes to color and texture. Gone are the days of limiting oneself to neutral and muted tones. We invite you to liven up your classic tailored favorites with daring colors, cutouts, and silhouettes. Whether you’re wearing it to work or after hours, here is an edit of some smart wardrobe staples that put a fresh twist on your ordinary suit.
Kente Gentlemen Baba V Suit
Handmade in Abidjan, the pinstripe pattern of the Baba VI Suit by Côte d’Ivoire-based brand Kente Gentelemen is the perfect statement two-piece to add to any wardrobe. Available in an array of colors, you can choose from pink, blue or purple hues of the fitted suit. Styled with a simple pair of white sneakers, so as to not take away from the design of the suit, it is easy to give this set a casual everyday feel while not compromising the debonair essence of a men’s suit.
MmusoMaxwell Asymmetrical Wool Jacket
With a fresh take on classic tailoring, Johannesburg-based brand Mmuso Maxwell takes classic menswear motifs to create a flattering womenswear design. The Asymmetrical Wool Jacket is made with 100% wool, complete with a belt design with silver hardware to cinch the waist for a flattering silhouette. The sleeveless vest-style jacket can be easily styled as a set with the matching Straight Cut Wool Pants.
Orange Culture Black Bow Shirt
Contemporary Nigerian brand Orange Culture elevates a simple design to a statement item with the Black Bow Shirt. With its extended bow collar that also doubles up as a scarf, the shirt is a lesson in smart elegance. A versatile piece that’s designed to be unisex, it can be worn tucked into a pencil skirt for power meetings or worn loose over chinos for casual days.
MmusoMaxwell Navy Wool Pants
Also by MmusoMaxwell, these Navy Wool Pants are designed to flatter, thanks to the slim straight-leg silhouette and high-waisted fit. The pants are versatile enough to fit many different style aesthetics, whether with a T-shirt and sneakers out running errands or paired with the Wool Back Cut-Out Blazer for a coordinating look.
VIVIERS Tailored Jacket and Cocoon Pants
South African brand VIVIERS was founded by designer Lezanne Viviers to create garments inspired by its heritage and contemporary culture, with an emphasis on tailoring that complements the modern woman. This is translated into a truly unexpected and luxurious twist on the loose-fit suit, made from the combination of the cotton velvet Tailored Jacket and matching Cocoon Pants. The blush-pink hue and velvet texture easily make this ensemble stand out on any occasion, while the relaxed silhouette ensures a comfortable fit. Wear it with simple heels and accessories to let the suit do all the talking.
