the '80s and '90s belonged to the power dresser – think Melanie Griffith’s Working Girl, or Madonna’s "Express Yourself” video. Fashion’s current barometers of cool – tuxedo-lover Kate Moss, print fan Florence Welch and princess of ladylike prim Alexa Chung – have long championed the tailored look.

For spring, there are skinny floral versions by Rag & Bone; nipped-in shapes by Peter Pilotto; utilitarian twills by Altuzarra; and shrunken tuxes by Saint Laurent – all of which will work hard in any modern wardrobe. The key to keeping it fresh is in the styling: a bold matching jacket and pants is the most striking look for now, but a suit can also be broken up and worn with shirts, couture tees, with denim or over dresses. Just remember: in the spirit of our tailoring heroines, always wear yours with plenty of attitude.