What do Blair Waldorf, Jackie Kennedy, Coco Chanel and Kate Middleton have in common? They have all harnessed the sartorial authority of the skirt suit. Sadly, despite its kick-ass credentials, the skirt suit has received bad press over the last decade, and for many, it will call to mind visions of fusty politicians and hat-clad royals (the queen is a huge fan).
However, thanks to the recent return of the trouser suit, this traditional two-piece is seeing a renaissance, and the 2018 iteration is anything but boring. From Clueless-inspired denim looks and corduroy-clad numbers to chic checks and throwback tweeds, the new skirt suit comes in a plethora of style personas. Also, due to the co-ordinating fabrics, it's a super-easy trend to style.
However you decide to wear it, a skirt suit will always look pulled-together (sometimes all it needs is a plain white tee and ankle boots to make an impact). Want to see how the fashion crowd wears theirs? Scroll down to see our edit of the best skirt suit looks and products.
Denim
On Megan: Topshop Denim Co-Ord (£77); Ray-Ban sunglasses
Style Notes: Perfect for an injection of '90s style, a denim skirt suit is everything we wanted to wear as a teen. The high street has a great selection of printed looks at the moment—including this snakeskin co-ord from Topshop.
Gingham
On Hanna: The Frankie Shop gingham suit; By Far heels
Style Notes: Proof that last season's gingham trend is still going strong. A checked skirt suit is the perfect balance of smart and chic. Plus, it can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion. We love how Hanna Stefansson has styled hers with By Far's barely there strappy sandals.
Corduroy
On Joy: H&M Corduroy Suit (£95)
Style Notes: Corduory is everywhere for A/W 18, and we couldn't be happier. This skirt suit from H&M looks so expensive with its well-tailored cut and '70s-inspired shade of dusty blue.
Tweed
On Emili: Chanel suit
Style Notes: There's something very Upper East Side grandma about the tweed skirt suit, and we're totally embracing the old-school aesthetic by styling it with gold jewellery and a mini bag. Emili Sindlev's '60s-inspired outfit is also a winner.
Pencil Skirt
On Renata: Zara midi skirt and shirt
Style Notes: The pencil skirt is undoubtedly a more traditional look, however, it does mean that you can make it work for the office. We're taking our cues from Vens Wife Style, who layers a polo-neck under her skirt suit for autumn.
Up next: I tried on the best new-in high-street skirts so you don't have to.
