Suits That Suit

I've never been a big fan of the cookie cutter suit -- the one that you see on mannequins as you walk in. As if that's all the thinking you need do and presto -- you're finished! I'm more for putting your own pieces together in an interesting way where style is not something you buy, but instead requires some creativity on your part.

And the best part of this approach is that you can choose pieces that fit the different parts of your body -- as everyone knows that there are very few of us who are inherently proportional in all regions. With that mind, here are some building blocks for the season.

J Crew has got it hands down for color this season (though I'll admit it angers me that all of their clothing is pictured on hipless, teen-like bodies). And of all the gorgeous pencil skirts offered at J Crew, this one has a lower waist and can therefore accommodate a few more figure flaws

So if you've got a tummy and hips, you can probably still look good in this up to size 10 or 12. I love the bronzed ochre (but black would be a great investment too).

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The higher waisted pencil skirts are great for those with not so much tummy and hips that are more proportionate to the rest of their width (i.e. not the pears among us). Check out this gorgeous version.

Pricier yes, but this is so classic (and yet unique), you'll have it for years. Pair this type of skirt with shorter (miniaturized) jackets and any form fitting (and sculpting/containing) layering piece to make your own suit.

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This one, also from J Crew, is good for an open front look if you feel buttoning up over emphasizes mid section girth shown here with a nice tummy obscuring tunic topic, this would also work great with a favorite blouse or nice fitted v-neck.

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This one, from Target, has a slight a-line, which is great if you have a little tummy to hide.

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This option from the Gap has just enough shaping through the body to outline a waist while grazing over any real trouble zones. It could be worn closed or open over a skirt or pants, depending on what you want to hide.

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Speaking of the Gap, though seemingly preoccupied with the poufy skirt this season, they do carry a nice a-line option in this adorable herringbone number. Really great for those of you with hips and thighs and willing to don a tall pair of boots and some good tights. The Herringbone wool keeps it just serious enough so it doesn't go to 'girlish' in the work zone.

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The Box pleat is also great for providing a little extra room through the hips/thigh area for those of us who are a little heavier on the bottom, this one also from the Gap.

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Since Ann Taylor is the place most people associate with 'suit' shopping, here is a great investment piece for your top half.

This jacket style will flatter most figure types in that it cinches at the empire, has a deep v-neck, and a nice peplum waist that skirts out over (and thus incorporates or creates the look of) hips. Though some are annoyed by a 3/4 sleeve, think of it as an opportunity to wear some of that jewelry that never sees the light of day! You can easily roll a blouse sleeve, push the sleeve of a sweater blend, or wear a sleeveless shell or short sleeve top (you are wearing a jacket after all).

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These are a just a few tips about the shapes and styles of suiting separates that let you be in charge, and also gets you more workable pieces for your wardrobe that can be used outside of the office.

Why did I skip pants? Because my next entry will be all about finding good work pants, and that need an entry unto itselfstay tuned!