In the realm of fashion, where every sartorial choice is a reflection of personal narrative and cultural zeitgeist, the significance of occasion dressing cannot be overstated. Whether it’s a wedding day or a moment of royal investiture at Buckingham Palace, what one wears becomes an indelible part of history—captured for posterity and immortalized in family mantelpieces. For Dame Anya Hindmarch, the visionary behind the iconic googly-eyed handbags, her recent investiture as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) was no exception. Yet, rather than opting for the predictable statement dress, she embraced a more refined and contemporary choice: the skirt suit.
Hindmarch’s selection of a bespoke navy Emilia Wickstead skirt suit—featuring a belted jacket and an A-line maxi skirt—was a masterclass in understated elegance. Paired with low heels, a pillbox hat, and her signature silver crisp packet bag, the ensemble exuded a modern sophistication that felt both timeless and of-the-moment. This choice echoed that of Anna Wintour, who recently donned a grey Alexander McQueen skirt suit to receive her Companion of Honor Award from King Charles. Together, these fashion luminaries have underscored the skirt suit’s resurgence as a symbol of enduring style and practicality.
The Skirt Suit: A Historical Revival
The skirt suit’s journey from scandalous to iconic began in 1947, when Christian Dior unveiled his revolutionary “New Look.” Characterized by its voluminous skirts and nipped-in waists, the silhouette was initially met with controversy due to its extravagant use of fabric in post-war austerity. Yet, over the decades, it has evolved into a cornerstone of modern fashion, reinterpreted by designers such as Erdem, Emilia Wickstead, and Jenny Packham. Its appeal lies in its versatility: a tailored jacket can be paired with jeans for a casual yet polished look, while the skirt can be styled with boots and a knit for a post-event ensemble.
Stylist Sarah Kate Byrne notes, “Skirt suits often suffer from a reputation of being dowdy or old-fashioned, but a well-tailored version, like Anya’s, is the epitome of timeless elegance. For occasion dressing, a dress might seem like the easier choice, but a skirt suit offers unparalleled versatility. It’s a two-in-one investment that delivers both sophistication and practicality.”
Royal and Celebrity Endorsements
The skirt suit has long been a staple in the wardrobes of the British royal family, with the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Edinburgh frequently showcasing modern interpretations. A standout example was Kate Middleton’s Erdem navy jacquard-print suit, featuring a pleated peplum and flared skirt, worn at the 2023 Commonwealth Service. Beyond royalty, the skirt suit has also found favor among celebrities and influencers. Kendall Jenner traded her off-duty denim for an Alberta Ferretti skirt suit in Paris, while Hailey Bieber channeled vintage Thierry Mugler pinstripes in New York. Actresses Demi Moore and Sarah Jessica Parker have also embraced the trend, donning contemporary takes by Erdem and Vivienne Westwood, respectively.
On the runways, designers have further cemented the skirt suit’s relevance. Stella McCartney, Prada, and Bottega Veneta showcased modern iterations for Autumn/Winter 2025, proving that the “working girl” aesthetic is here to stay—not just for formal occasions but as a versatile wardrobe essential.
Styling the Skirt Suit for Modern Times
For those seeking to incorporate the skirt suit into their wardrobes, Byrne advises a minimalist approach to accessories and footwear. “Avoid statement jewelry or scarves, as they can detract from the suit’s inherent elegance and veer into ‘cabin crew’ territory,” she cautions. “Instead, opt for heeled boots or pointed flats to maintain a modern edge.”
High-street brands have also embraced the trend, offering accessible options such as Cefinn’s pinstripe suit for summer events and Aligne’s collarless bouclé set, which seamlessly transitions from office to wedding.
A Return to the Zeitgeist
Jewellery designer and socialite Sabine Getty, a self-proclaimed advocate for the skirt suit, encapsulates its appeal: “It’s the easiest outfit to wear—effortlessly elegant and perfectly matching. Once you find the right fit, you can experiment with colors and textures, making it endlessly versatile. I’m thrilled to see its return to the fashion zeitgeist.”
Indeed, the skirt suit’s revival is a testament to its enduring allure. As Dame Anya Hindmarch and other style icons have demonstrated, it is more than just a garment—it is a statement of timeless sophistication, practicality, and modern relevance. Whether gracing royal ceremonies, red carpets, or everyday life, the skirt suit has firmly reclaimed its place as a cornerstone of contemporary fashion.
