Michelle Obama & Meghan Markle nail summer tailoring in sleeveless suits

Last night saw Michelle Obama take to the stage at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where she looked effortlessly cool in a look by Monse, which consisted of a navy waistcoat with matching tailored trousers. The ensemble was similar to the outfit that Meghan Markle wore on the first day of her tour of Colombia last week – a navy tailored co-ord from Veronica Beard. The sleeveless suit, as we’re calling it, has been trending for some time now, and – as demonstrated by Obama and Markle – is a great option for looking supremely polished both in and out of the office.

Obama’s set – which she wore with pointed Jimmy Choo Scarlett pumps, silver hoop earrings by David Yurman and a dramatic ponytail braid – was from American label Monse’s resort 2025 collection and featured a statement belt and a unique criss-cross pattern across the front. It is not the first time she has chosen to wear designs from Monse’s co-founders Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, who are also the creative directors of Oscar de la Renta, a brand Obama has worn many times.

Markle chose a very similar look as she landed in Bogota last Thursday – a navy tailored two-piece by Veronica Beard. The design featured brown buttons up the front, a halter neckline and a slight peplum hem, while the trousers were a skinny fit. She teamed it with Manolo Blahnik suede heels, a Loro Piana bag and Ray-Ban sunglasses.

Although the two looks were super similar, the two women proved, with their styling, that the sleeveless suit works day to night. While Markle dressed hers for daytime, and looked very California cool in hers, Obama made hers work for the evening – but both were chic and polished.

If you are thinking of investing in a sleeveless suit, look to The Frankie Shop for loose-fitting tailored trousers and matching waistcoats in a number of colourways, head to Max Mara for something super sleek and, for a more affordable option, Cos has some great styles.