Fashion Design School of Design
Katie Lawson

A Corporate Stance
This collection reimagines power dressing for the modern woman—an exploration of what it means to be visible, respected, and self-assured in professional spaces today. Rooted in the traditions of corporate wear, I looked closely at the foundation of tailoring: structured blazers, crisp shirting, and precise cuts that have historically signified authority and professionalism. But instead of replicating the rigid codes of the past, I’ve approached these garments with a modern lens—playing with proportion, introducing softness in both fabric and silhouette, and incorporating unexpected twists that reflect the way women express power now.
I’ve always been fascinated by how clothing can shape perception, especially in environments where image is tied to credibility. A central influence for this collection was my mum, who has spent her career climbing the ranks in a male-dominated field. She has consistently chosen to dress with formality and structure—favouring classic suiting in darker tones, always polished, always professional. But in recent years, she’s acknowledged the shift in workplace fashion: people no longer rely solely on black and grey to be taken seriously. She’s started to introduce colour, subtle prints, and softer textures into her wardrobe—still staying true to her values, but evolving with the times.
That blend of tradition and transition is at the heart of this collection. I wanted the clothes to honour the strength found in classic tailoring, while also embracing the creativity and fluidity that defines modern style. You’ll find clean, sharp lines balanced with draped elements, traditional fabrics like wool and suiting blends paired with unexpected textures, and silhouettes that offer both structure and movement. Every piece is designed to make the wearer feel grounded, capable, and comfortable in their identity—whether they’re stepping into a boardroom or redefining what leadership looks like on their own terms.
In the end, this collection is about more than clothing—it’s about presence. It’s about women showing up in spaces of power without having to adopt someone else’s uniform. It’s a celebration of confidence that isn’t confined by convention, and style that reflects who we are today.
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