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Styled Archives: The Female Power Suit Throughout the Decades

Packed with history and intertwined with feminist movements, there’s so much more to a blazer and pant suit combo that you know…

Mai El Mokadem
Oct 31, 2024
Styled Archives: The Female Power Suit Throughout the Decades

In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, few garments have embodied the spirit of female empowerment quite like the power suit. Though the concept was invented in the 1920s by the suffragette movement, it took off in the 1940s as a statement of defiance against traditional gender norms. Fast-forward to the 2020s, the female power suit has evolved dramatically across decades, and has become worn at diverse settings, from offices to fancy dinners and rendezvouses. 

In the Arab region, particularly in Egypt, this evolution reflects not just shifts in style, but also profound changes in societal attitudes towards women’s roles in the workplace and public life. The early designs, influenced by wartime practicality and post-war optimism, paved the way for women to assert their presence in male-dominated spaces. As we journey through the decades, we’ll explore how Egyptian style symbols have reimagined this ensemble, embracing varying aesthetics while responding to global trends…

The 1940s

The power suit emerged during World War II as women entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers. In Egypt, inspired by Western trends, women began wearing tailored suits with shoulder pads and structured silhouettes, symbolizing their entry into roles traditionally held by men. However, they still embraced it in a more feminine frame, commonly pairing it with a skirt rather than pants. This era marked a departure from restrictive clothing, embracing practicality and strength, and in this iconic moment, Egyptian actress Faten Hamama is seen rocking the 1940s version of a power suit, with embroidered lace patches as a feminine touch. 

The 1950s

In the post-war boom, the 1950s saw the power suit evolve into a symbol of femininity. Designers like Christian Dior introduced hourglass silhouettes that celebrated women’s curves, and French designer Coco Chanel was inspired by men’s suit jackets, creating the iconic Chanel jacket. In Egypt, this translated to chic suits with fitted jackets and pencil skirts, as Lebanese actress Sabah wears in this portrait, with a white chemise popping from underneath. 

The 1960s

The 1960s brought a wave of social change, and the power suit became a canvas for self-expression. Women sought to assert their independence, and designers began experimenting with embroidery and patterns. This decade celebrated individualism, with women using fashion as a statement of liberation, especially like Egyptian actress Shadia, in the film ‘Meraty Modeer ‘am’, where she played a d strong female figure, ending up as her husband’s boss.in this movie, she donned the 60s version of a power suits, sharp blazers and structured silhouettes paired with knee length skirts.

The 1970s

As feminism gained momentum, the 1970s marked a radical shift in the power suit's representation. Women sought suits that conveyed authority without sacrificing femininity. In Egypt, flared trousers and longer jackets became popular, reflecting a more relaxed yet assertive attitude. In the Arab world, including Egypt, suits started to incorporate more and more pants, like Egyptian actress Soaad Hosny in an all-white, monochromatic moment. 

The 1980s

The 1980s epitomized ‘power dressing’, with oversized blazers, bold colors, and extravagant accessories much like this polka-dot-print suit that Egyptian performer Sherihan wore in 1982. In the Arab region, women in business and politics embraced this look, signaling a newfound confidence. The suit became synonymous with success, as female leaders and entrepreneurs used fashion to project authority and ambition in the workplace.

The 1990s

The 1990s saw a shift towards minimalism, with clean lines and an understated style. In Egypt, this era brought more monochromatic suits, as women sought versatile suits suitable for both professional and social settings. In this image, Egyptian actress Laila Elwi flaunts a minimalist aesthetic, in an all-black power suit. 

The 2000s

As the new millennium approached, the power suit became more personalized. Women started to mix and match pieces, incorporating accessories and layers that reflected their unique style identities. In the Arab world, this meant embracing modern, cosmopolitan looks. In this popular movie about gender roles and women in positions of power, Mona Zaki stuns in a vibrantly-coloured red, silk blouse and a fitted,black suit. 

The 2010s

The 2010s brought a renewed focus on redefining femininity through fashion. The power suit evolved into a versatile staple, often featuring diverse silhouettes and styles. Menna Shalabi wears a sharply-tailored vest, a black tie, and fitted pants, embracing what is traditionally seen as menswear elements. 

The 2020s

Today, women in Egypt and the broader Arab region continue to redefine what it means to wear a suit. Contemporary designs embrace sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural heritage, merging traditional elements with modern aesthetics. The power suit is a statement of identity, as Amina Khalil here twists the standard suit to her own taste and style, in a stunning turquoise-to-azure ombré. 

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