1930s Suits

By the 1930s women had begun to borrow from the men's wardrobe, and the result was tailoring that was sharp but still unmistakably feminine. Our 1930s suits are separates you can build into your own 1930s suit: tailored jackets, pleated skirts, wide-leg trousers, fitted waistcoats and even plus fours, in wool, corduroy and twill.

Skirt suit or trouser suit?

A 1930s skirt suit pairs a fitted jacket with a mid-calf skirt, often pleated or slightly flared. The trouser version borrows from Marlene Dietrich, who made high-waisted, wide-leg trousers and sharp tailoring a symbol of confidence long before anyone talked about power dressing. Both look their best with a silk or crepe blouse. If menswear is your thing, our masculine 1930s collection goes further, with waistcoats, plus fours and spearpoint-collar shirts.

Building a 1930s women's suit outfit

• Start with a tailored jacket: moulded shoulders and a nipped waist are the key.
• Add a skirt or wide-leg trousers in the same tones.
• Finish with a tie-neck or pussy-bow blouse, a beret or tilt hat and gloves.

Read more about the look in our 1930s style guide. Sizes start at a UK 8, and selected styles go up to a 24.