I think in 2019 suits really became my signature. If I had an occasion, nine times out of ten I reached for a suit. While I became sort of known for rocking a suit with just a bra this year; I really love how being all covered up can also be sexy. I rocked a similar effect here and also did a suit with a turtleneck and it also felt very "me." when I created my holiday capsule wardrobe, it was based upon this black cocktail pantsuit from Talbots and I really wanted to try it with a buttoned-up shirt to achieve a feminine version of a man's tuxedo.
For reference, I've worn this cocktail pantsuit before - here I wore it with a camisole to a cocktail attire gala; here I wore it with a cashmere turtleneck. What's great about this cocktail pantsuit is what gives it some negative reviews on the website - how soft and unstructured it is. While it's lined and shaped just like a traditional suit, the soft stretch crepe provides give and flexibility making it comfortable to slip over layers. I don't know about you, but with my soft curves, a bunch of layers usually makes me feel like the Michelin Man. I never would do a crisp white shirt under a blazer, I wouldn't be able to move my arms! But this works.
I'm pleased with this shirt. I got a similar one from Talbots last year and went with 16 Petite thinking I needed to size up for my arms and bust. It was way too big in the neck and the whole thing was blousy. This year I asked for a 14P and it's a MUCH better fit all over with plenty of room for my bust! Do know I did hide a safety pin between two buttons at the bust to stop it from gaping, but only one was needed to feel covered all day, sitting and standing and moving around. The shirt is no-wrinkle and it truly is; I rolled up the sleeves, left it tucked in all day with plenty of sitting and at the end of the day hung it up and it hardly had a crease. In the original holiday capsule wardrobe, I suggested using this bow brooch at the top of the shirt to replicate a bow tie. I think it's such a fun detail; don't be surprised to see me wear it like this again in the future!
While I felt comfortable rocking this cocktail pantsuit with heeled pumps, this look would also look so chic with some black patent brogues, a lower-heeled pump or sandal, or a pair of dressy flats. Switch out the crisp white shirt for a softer blouse (I also like this suit with the velvet tank from Talbots; it matches the lapels perfectly and has straps and a neckline perfect to cover any kind of bra).