The new power suit is slouchy jeans and a short jacket

Fashion writer Jess Cartner-Morley has identified a distinct shift in contemporary workwear, positioning the combination of slouchy jeans and a short jacket as the updated 'power suit'. In a recent analysis for The Guardian, she describes the look as a low-key, office-appropriate alternative to traditional formal wear, prioritising comfort and flexibility over rigid structure. The style offers a 'faux-effortless' aesthetic that remains grown up without being stiff, serving as a practical solution for varying temperatures and commutes.

The trend marks an evolution from the previously popular formula of longline blazers worn with high-waisted jeans. To align with fashion’s latest direction, Cartner-Morley suggests opting for a shorter jacket paired with slouchier denim. This adjustment creates a 'louche' effect, where a glimpse of the top is visible between the jacket and the waistband, adding a slightly undone charm that distinguishes it from more polished iterations.

This silhouette is being driven by recent collections from major fashion houses. Designers Jonathan Anderson at Dior and Matthieu Blazy at Chanel are reportedly featuring shorter jackets in their recent lines. Anderson has shrunk the classic Dior 'bar' jacket so that the peplum flares at the waist rather than the hip, while Blazy introduced a sharp-shouldered cropped blazer during his Chanel catwalk debut. The cropped style has previously been worn by figures such as Jacob Elordi and Michelle Obama.

The versatility of the look lies in its layering options, which Cartner-Morley describes as a principle of 'yin and yang' between laid-back jeans and polished jackets. She recommends a plain white T-shirt or a graphic tee worn over a shirt to avoid collar conflict, noting that this approach prevents the 'scrapping' of collars that can occur with more complex necklines. This layering strategy ensures the outfit remains comfortable and suitable for daytime wear, whether navigating overheated transport or air-conditioned offices.

Ultimately, the article frames the jeans-and-jacket combination as a timeless formula that has simply been updated for the current season. By adjusting the jacket length and the fit of the denim, the look offers a flexible, comfortable, and commercially literate approach to dressing for work. The styling for the accompanying feature was handled by Melanie Wilkinson, with model Maria Diaz.