Woman's Wool Suit, 1980s
Donated by Dr. Betty Fisher

In the 1980s, a large number of women entered or re-entered the world of work outside the home. The first order of fashion in a corporate setting is to establish a tone of seriousness and comradery. An office setting is no place for spandex fabrics, jeans or sweatsuits--other trends of the moment.

The "menswear" influence came about as a result of the desire on the part of business women to be serious competitors in uncharted territory. The two piece wool suit on the mannequin was worn for its well-tailored, understated lines. This type of garment came to be know as "the power suit."