Executive Sport

Sportswear – previously absent for a while - combines with workwear to create a new laid-back urban uniform for the active modern career woman.

Last season the power suit came in the form of drab masculine factory overalls; before that it was about continental uniforms. This season, it’s softer, sexier and sportier, and reveals more flesh than before.

The office executive’s clothes are beautifully tailored with soft, clean shapes; made from luxury silks, wools and cashmere, they’re aimed at the powerful female consumer. Embellishments and frills are scarce; it’s about shape as opposed to colour or pattern here.

Layering is also common. Colours remain neutral; taupes, beiges and whites are key. The blouson-style parka replaces the more formal and restrictive trench coat.The classic white dress shirt forms another staple.

Hooded tops are worn with tailored trousers, romper suits combine swimwear with the more traditional hot pant/city short. At Marc Jacobs, baseball caps and flamboyant metallic head corsages are teamed with combat-style pants and jackets.

Designer handbags are evident but are not as oversized as last season; designer logos appear on some. Shoes come in the form of bejewelled ‘platform’ flats, super-chunky wedge heels or tennis pumps. It’s both frivolous and serious.

Soft and feminine, but with a distinct air of ‘combat’ about them; these clothes define a comfortable, sexy working wardrobe for the active urban career women.Designers who went sporty: Stella McCartney, Dries van Noten, Marc Jacobs, Paul Smith, Michael Kors, Pringle, Issey Miyake, Loewe, Cacharel, Celine, MaxMara