(Culture)

How To Refresh Your Suit Wardrobe The Lupita Nyong’o Way

by Julia Weiner
Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

What was once seen as a style primarily reserved for boardroom meetings and high-pressure interviews has taken shape as a glamorous, feminine wardrobe addition for the modern woman. In other words, suiting doesn't have to be boring. Ready to learn how to style a suit in an updated way? Look no further than Lupita Nyong'o, who's found countless methods to reimagine the trend.

When she's not commanding the screen in major films like Black Panther and the Star Wars franchise, Nyong'o is proving her status as a rising fashion authority on and off the red carpet. While her looks span a wide range of style and taste, there's one common theme that's easy to spot when it comes to Nyong'o's go-tos: The actor loves a good suit.

Although the thought of women's suiting may bring forth an image of '80s-esque shoulder pads and form-fitting trousers, the 35-year-old has a few ideas when it comes to experimenting with the menswear trend. Ahead, find Nyong'o's best suiting moments as of late, from silky separates to bold brights.

Cheeky Coral

Recently named Pantone's color of the year, Living Coral has already begun to veer its vibrant head in the outfits of some of the most stylish celebrities. Demonstrating that she's one step ahead of the crowd, Nyong'o took a stab at the shade while attending the Welcome to Wakanda showcase during New York Fashion Week last Feb. Rather than opting for a traditional blazer and pants combination, she paired a coral peplum tank top with matching flared trousers. Take a cue from Nyong'o and style your coral-on-coral look with orange-toned lipstick and gold jewelry.

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Icy White

Nyong'o stunned in an all-white look at the WSJ Magazine Innovator Awards in New York City on Nov. 7. The actor tucked a sleek white blazer into a pair of high-waisted, wide-leg trousers with tailored pleats. Abandon any and all outdated fashion rules and embrace this milky hue year-round. Piece together a linen blazer and pants in the summer, or dress up a white jumpsuit with faux fur and pearls on a cold evening.

Lars Niki/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Cute & Cropped

When she appeared on Late Night with Seth Meyers in March of 2016, Nyong'o presented a polished take on a crop top. While midriff-baring, tiny tops aren't always deemed the most sophisticated, wearing a crop top under an oversized suit can elevate your entire look. Make like the award-winner and let your favorite bralette (finally) see the light of day by wearing it underneath a boxy blazer.

Sleek Navy

As evident from photos taken at the the Women in Film 2017 Crystal + Lucy Awards, Nyong'o is no stranger to a classic monochrome look. Frankly, you can't go wrong when marrying two high-end-looking navy pieces. Perfect for a work day or even a night out, Nyong'o wore a pair of structured blue trousers with a draped blouse that featured billowing sleeves and a plunging neckline. Throw a blazer on top to make it professional, or add chunky silver jewelry for an evening look.

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Pinstriped

There's something unquestionably empowering about a basic pinstriped suit, especially a contemporary version like the one Nyong'o wore at The Hollywood Reporter's Power 100 Women in Entertainment on Dec. 5 in Los Angeles. Cinch your waist with a belt to completely transform the silhouette while adding just the right amount of exciting hardware. Wear your pinstripe suit to a formal event with a satin camisole and suede pumps or keep it casual by pairing it with platform sneakers and a graphic tee.

Presley Ann/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images