In 2026, the internet is in full debate mode. Are suits really making a comeback or will business casual continue to rule the workplace? To find out, we tapped Shahirah Brown, founder of Sistas In Suits Nonprofit to weigh in, and let’s just say, she was suited (pun intended) and booted to respond.
“Suits are absolutely making a comeback,” she stated with enthusiasm, noting a tailored suit can signal authority and leadership. “It commands attention on demand! Look at the 2025 Essence Fest, the Brandy & Monica concert, and the Met Gala. Women showed up, reclaiming the power of a suit and giving it a modern twist one piece at a time.”
She notes the rise in women wanting tailored suits that have bold colors, exaggerated shoulders, fluid silhouettes, and styling that feels intentional, and not obligatory. In a time when women are building, leading, investing, and founding nonprofits, the return of structured power dressing feels aligned with the moment.
Bye, Bye Business Casual?
Business casual is described as a professional dress code that trades traditional tailored business wear with more relaxed, comfortable styles. Think: slacks, khakis, blouses, sweaters, button-down shirts, and blazers.
“Business casual has given women the freedom to be flexible and comfortable with their wardrobe. However, professional boundaries can easily become blurred,” she cautions, noting suits create a sense of leadership and authority.
While business casual continues to be the preferred office attire for many, others are turning to the structure of suits to make a statement in the workplace.
The Non-Negotiable: Color
If companies announced tomorrow that suits were officially back, would women be excited? Brown’s answer comes with a condition: “I would be excited, under one condition: diversity in color is a must. I love a good tailored, bold red suit.”
She notes suits should reflect the wearer’s personality. Bold red. Emerald green. Soft lavender. Textured neutrals. The power is in the personalization.
“What you wear can absolutely influence how you feel,” Brown explains, when asked if suits can boost confidence. “When I wear a suit, I feel powerful, and that shifts the rooms I walk into and how I present myself.”
RELATED | Sistas In Suits: Highlights From The Event That Celebrated Sisterhood & Style!
And maybe that’s the answer the internet has been looking for. Women are not looking for rigid corporate dress codes, but instead a revival of intentional dressing and a reclamation of visual authority. “Sometimes it’s the suit, and other times it’s the confidence you wear,” Brown concludes.
The internet may still be debating, but the Suit Era? It’s already here.
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
