The best trouser suits to add to your capsule wardrobe this season
If you thought trouser suits were exclusively for the office, it's time to re-evaluate. In fact, what started out as a humble women's workwear essential has quickly turned into a capsule wardrobe staple, with the best trouser suits being appropriate for just about any occasion with the right styling tips.
Looking back at the most stylish women of the past few decades, it's clear that there was a running theme among their wardrobes – they all embraced the trouser suit trend. Be it Bianca Jagger in the '70s with her iconic ivory wedding suit and three-piece party tailoring, or Gwyneth Paltrow rocking Gucci's signature red velvet suit in 1996, the fashion set has never shied away from structured tailoring when it comes to red carpet looks and after-dark dressing.
So, it's hardly surprising that in 2024 our favourite brands, from H&M and Reiss to Aligne and M&S, are looking to the past for design inspiration. This year it's all about the tuxedo jacket, which first came to the fore back in 1966 when Yves Saint Laurent introduced the iconic Le Smoking. We love ME+EM's reference to the luxury house this season, with its feminine take on the traditionally masculine black tie classic.
The best trouser suits don't need to be saved for special occasions, though. You can keep things office-appropriate by layering structured blazers over crisp white shirts and opting for on-trend slingback kitten heels or chunky trainers.
Starting to think about your spring/summer wardrobe? Simply swap out weighty wool trouser suits for this season's must-have linen sets – they'll work with T-shirts day-to-day and also make excellent resortwear when paired with a timeless black swimsuit.
Keep scrolling for Red's favourite trouser suits to shop this season, from versatile pinstripes to cool collarless styles.
Aligne
In this gorgeous buttercup-yellow shade, Aligne's three-piece suit is perfect for the spring months. We love the brand's coordinating wide-leg trousers, but we're also looking forward to styling the waistcoat and collarless jacket solo with denim on more casual occasions.
Blazer, £165; waistcoat, £119; trousers, £129
ME+EM
We've spotted all the fashion set wearing tuxedo jackets recently, and trust ME+EM to bring out a stylish iteration that'll last in your wardrobe for years to come. We like how the brand has updated the classic tux with a cropped waistcoat and perfectly-draped palazzo pants.
Blazer, £375; waistcoat, £295; trousers, £250
Boden
If you're tired of neutral linen trouser suits in the spring/summer months, opt for Boden's statement gingham two-piece instead. We'll be wearing ours with a crisp white tee and bold red lip.
Blazer, £170; trousers, £90
Reiss
Reiss' trouser suits come approved by the Princess of Wales. In fact, Kate was spotted in the brand's Hollie blazer twice last year for royal engagements. The tort buttons and double-breasted silhouette make this style smart enough for summer weddings.
Blazer, £268; trousers, £168
H&M
It's no secret that pinstripe trousers are back in a big way for 2024. For smarter events, opt for a matching blazer and add lashings of gold jewellery. We're really impressed that this two-piece set from H&M rings in at just £50.
Blazer, £36.55; trousers, £13.60
M&S Collection
A full trouser suit doesn't have to cost the earth – just look at M&S' three-piece set that features high-waisted, pleated trousers, a cropped waistcoat and a wear-with-everything blazer. Style yours with pointed ballet flats or white trainers this season.
Blazer, £69; waistcoat, £35; trousers, £39.50
Albaray
More pinstripes trouser suits, because a capsule wardrobe really isn't complete without one. We particularly like how this Albaray set has a more relaxed silhouette with its oversized blazer and longline waistcoat.
Blazer, £119; waistcoat, £79; trousers, £79
Reiss
You can always rely on Reiss to produce impeccable tailoring that will see you from the desk and onto dinner. Want to take this striped number beyond the office walls? Simply style the linen-blend trousers with black swimwear on your next holiday.
Blazer, £268; waistcoat, £198; trousers, £168
M&S Collection
It doesn't get much more versatile than a timeless black trouser suit. M&S' two-piece set takes inspiration from the '70s with slim-fitting, flared trousers and a double-breasted blazer.
Blazer, £79, trousers, £39.50, marksandspencer.com
H&M
For a more casual take on the trouser suit trend, look to H&M's woven blazer. This style is perfect for the summer months with its 3/4 length sleeves and versatile cream hue. We'll be styling ours with the brand's linen-blend trousers – thanks to the drawstring waist they are as comfy as your favourite joggers.
Blazer, £36.55, trousers, £13.60, hm.com
M&S Collection
We've been seriously impressed with M&S' tailoring this year. This timeless grey trouser suit is the ideal versatile piece to have in your repertoire – you can wear the set together, style the cropped waistcoat with high-waisted jeans, or throw the oversized blazer over a staple slip dress.
Blazer, £69; waistcoat, £35; trousers, £45
Cos Atelier
From the latest drop of Cos' luxury Atelier collection, this trouser set comprises a collarless blazer with wide-shoulders and a fitted waist, as well as a pair of silk-blend trousers.
Blazer, £225; trousers, £155
Jigsaw
Looking to inject some colour into your wardrobe this spring? Add a pop of pink with Jigsaw's sleek trouser suit. This set is lined and crafted with a touch of wool so is a great choice for the transitional months.
Blazer, £220; trousers, £170
Albaray
Switch out black for lighter neutrals such as cream and beige this spring. We love Albaray's blazer, waistcoat and trouser coord that comes in this chic stone shade or a classic black iteration.
Blazer, £149; waistcoat, £69; trousers, £89
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