As the economic recovery creeps along and an era of excess passes, this lady is ready to retaliate. She is smart and dresses smart—raw and polished, tough and tender. Enter the new era of pragmatism where simplicity and efficiency are key. Although austere accents appear, and a “borrowed from the boys” menswear-inspired look continues, she’s still a lady. She may tie a man’s belt around her waist—but she accentuates the waist she has. She may wear a double-breasted suit—but there’s a bow tied around her neck. She’s not letting go of her feminine ways—she keeps them understated and clean. Skirt suits, pantsuits, even full skirts paired with jackets are always tailored—she appreciates the art of dressmaking and seeks fine workmanship. Shades of gray, and neutrals from camel to chocolate brown, saturate her look. Lady loafers, bow belts, top-handle bags keep her feminine side intact. She’s one of Hitchcock’s heroines—hard and soft, and ready to get professional and take the workforce by storm while still holding that leading lady role.
