I know everyone is clinging to the final days of summer, and gasping at the mention of fall but with the September issues of all the fashion magazines gracing the shelves, it is hard to ignore. While looking forward to fall 2012, we are at the same time looking back. Back to the 1960′s when menswear became a popular form of dress for the working woman.

Pantsuits first appeared in the 1920′s but didn’t begin to rise to prominence until later in the 1960′s but they weren’t widely worn until the later years with the rise of the women’s liberation movement and the rise of the female voice in the home and workplace.

Pantsuits were still seen in the 1980s when they were worn by the title character in the movie Working Girl, and pantsuits have recently been seen on several prominent female politicians, including Hilary Clinton and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. They are also regular fashion choices for women in positions of power on television – including Parks and Recreations Amy Poehler. In the 1970′s, Yves Saint Laurent included a pantsuit in his Spring/Summer collection.

In today’s modern world, pantsuits, suits, and women adorning themselves in menswear is a popular fashion. From accessories such as hats and ties, to full suits and loafers, women have left no form of fashion strictly for men. With women holding their own in the business world, wearing pants and blazers is a daily ensemble.

The runways for Fall 2012, to no ones surprise were thronged with pantsuits in pastels, bold purples and burgundys, and crazy, wild geometric patterns. Alongside the classic pantsuits and blazers, is the more fitted and equestrian styled pantsuit. Adding in mixtures of tweed, and neuatral colours with a touch of a feminine silhouette.

Whether you are a working woman or still in university, trousers and a blazer are staples for any fall wardrobe. Matching, patterned or in a bold colour, you can’t go wrong. So when you finally say goodbye to the long days of summer and hit the stores for some back to school shopping, remember the history behind the pantsuit and make sure to pick one up yourself, maybe in an edgy, bold pattern to spice up the fall wardrobe.

1. ASOS Premium Blazer in Geo Print, $113.78
2. H&M Trousers, $29.95
3. H&M Tweed Blazer, $24.95
Dusty Yurkin