Being a businesswoman nowadays is much easier than in the 1970s, and although many women chose a business career back then, creating oneself in such a demanding environment was not easy. History repeats itself - women, wanting to be as independent as men, gradually entered the world of difficult business. To be recognized in society, they required not only substantive professionalism, but also an appropriate dress code. Then the concept appeared in the fashion world power dressing , which operates and develops to this day.


Power dressing clothes should add self-confidence, so the upper parts of the wardrobe should optically widen and emphasize the shoulders. Decorative ruffles, large jacket lapels and puffs are also used. Gold or gold-plated elements are also important in this style - from jewelry, watches to buttons and belt loops.

Forerunners of power dressing

Fashion designers are sensitive to the world around them and create for and through it. Women initially had to deal with too large suits that were not very well cut for often narrow and petite figures. This unplanned and undesirable oversize became an inspiration, among others, for Donna Karan, who decided to create something for businesswomen that would make it easier for them to achieve success, because, as she said, “Design and style should work to make you look good and feel good without much effort, so you can get on with the important things.” The collection from 1985 included, among others, stylish jackets and white, looser shirts. Currently, a similar project, which in XXI century will allow us to feel the business spirit of the mid-80s, there is the Fancy shirt from Pinko.


Giorgo is among the designers who are among the pioneers of power dressing Armani , known for its bold approach to fashion, chose streamlined shapes that give women freedom and a sense of confidence. Although Armani's current designs differ from those from the mid-1980s, it is not difficult to find interesting proposals among his designs that fit into the power dressing, but are a bit bolder and suitable for today's times. Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein also contributed to the history of women's business fashion . When power dressing was just developing, the catwalks often featured high-waisted trousers that emphasized the waist, and the fitted effect was balanced by wide legs. Calvin Klein offers trousers that fit this look - the iconic Culottes.

Contemporary power dressing

After the great revolution in the 1980s, there was a slight decline in the fascination with women's suits, and in the 1990s, more feminine accessories were added to them, such as lace or they were made of satin. Clothes became slightly tighter and instead of wide trousers, pencil skirts with a slit at the back began to appear. Nowadays, features of different power dressing concepts are increasingly combined due to the wide possibilities and freedom of choice. Today, no one is surprised by the combination of tight pants, a white T-shirt and an elegant jacket with wide shoulders. Women's suits emphasize the waist, but do not lose their characteristic features, for example gold buttons are added to them. A perfect example would be in this case elegant Marciano jacket Guess

Nowadays, it is not unusual to combine a brightly colored jacket with an elegant jumpsuit. Donna Karan, quoted at the beginning, says that “Fashion these days is really about sensuality – how a woman feels on the inside. In the 1980s, women used suits with exaggerated shoulders and waists to make a strong impression. Women now feel more comfortable with themselves and their bodies – they no longer feel the need to hide behind clothes.” Her words are an excellent explanation for the innovative approach to non-obvious connections. Nowadays, the purpose of power dressing is completely different, the style itself has become a matter of free choice rather than a top-down obligation or social pressure.

Our proposals in the style of power dressing

In addition to the above suggestions, we have prepared other interesting models for women who are inspired by power dressing. A jacket that shows off the shoulders Pinko it is a perfect wardrobe item for brave women. Combined with expressive fishnet stockings, Charita will add chic and emphasize femininity. It is worth adding a flowing scarf to the set to cover the neckline when necessary.

July 12, 2023