Last summer was all about flower prints and flowing maxi dresses, but in 2009 the boho-chic look seems to have been consigned to the back of the wardrobe. The must-have item on every VIP party girl's shopping list is an uber-tailored trouser suit.
Teamed with killer heels, they make the perfect party outfit - as demonstrated by Kate Hudson this week at a magazine bash in New York. The Bride Wars actress was on elegant form in a Stella McCartney ensemble comprising a herringbone-weave white jacket, wide-leg trousers and a silk blouse.
Her look was finished off with gold Giuseppe Zanotti peep-toes stilettos and a loosely pinned-back hair style.
While Kate's shimmering creation ensured she cut an elegant figure, opting for a vibrant tone can give the trend an edgy twist. Catwalk star Heidi Klum worked a hot pink satin, skinny-leg ensemble recently, contrasting the feminine colour with a masculine 'do – formed by sweeping her long locks tightly against her head.
Trousers suit options also stood out at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Gala. Rihanna – never one to shy away from making a statement on the red carpet – opted for one, as did Stella McCartney.
The Umbrella singer had chosen an unusual Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo-style suit, the huge puffball sleeves of which echoed another of this season's key trends – emphasis on the shoulders.
Women's trouser suit ambassador Stella McCartney, whose summer collection features several pastel suits, also turned heads in a black lace jumpsuit of her own creation.