Your Strong Suit: Where to Shop for Women’s Suits in Boston

Women’s suiting finds its foothold at these local shops.


9Tailors’ Leather District showroom. / Photograph by Jenna Skutnik

FOR A CUSTOM FIT
9Tailors

Don’t be fooled by the dearth of female models on 9Tailors’ website: The custom suiting company welcomes women into its cozy Leather District showroom. Stop by or schedule a private appointment at the 10-year-old boutique, where consultants stand ready and willing to advise on fit and thousands of fabric options.

Must-Buy: Custom two-piece suit, starting at $585.

132 Lincoln St., Boston, 617-286-6135, 9tailors.com.

FOR A CONTEMPORARY LOOK
Reiss

Although Reiss’s Boston location lacks some of the bells and whistles of its New York and London counterparts, the brick-walled shop still wins our vote for its modern selection of mix-and-match separates: trendy wide-leg trousers, sleek blazers, and tailored V-neck dresses you won’t mind wearing out for post-work cocktails.

Must-Buy: “Chelton” wool-blend trouser, $245.

132 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-5800, reiss.com.

Reiss’s tailored trouser. / Courtesy photo

FOR AN INVESTMENT PIECE
Armani

Big meeting coming up? There’s nothing like knowing you look fierce to help you really act the part. Find all the sartorial courage you need at Armani, home to a splurge-worthy selection of luxe silk suits and blouses, as well as coordinating jackets and slacks in plush velvet and wool.

Must-Buy: Silk suit with rhinestones, $8,995.

22 Newbury St., Boston, 617-267-3200, armani.com.

A sleek jacket from Armani. / Courtesy photo

FOR A CLASSIC STYLE
Brooks Brothers

Brooks Brothers may have found a flashy creative director in Project Runway’s Zac Posen, but the 200-year-old retailer’s womenswear line is still rooted in tradition. Peruse the neat displays for everything from sharp pencil skirts in classic silhouettes to slim-fit pants with just the right amount of stretch.

Must-Buy: Double-breasted wool tuxedo dress, $798.

46 Newbury St., Boston, 617-267-2600; and other locations; brooksbrothers.com.

FOR A FASHION-FORWARD FEEL
MaxMara

Pantsuits have come a long way from the days of shoulder pads. Italian brand MaxMara continues to push the style envelope, stocking a design-minded—and rather extensive—suiting collection that includes “denim-effect” wool separates, elevated jersey jackets, and carrot-fit trousers with gold piping.

Must-Buy: Double-breasted velvet jacket, $1,250, with velvet trousers, $595.

69 Newbury St., Boston, 617-267-9775, us.maxmara.com.