Broadcasting Style: The Rachel Zane Capsule Wardrobe

Before she was the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle entered our lives as Rachel Zane from Suits.  The show has faltered some in later seasons, but the early years, oh, the early years.  And one of the show’s best attributes was Rachel Zane, the badass paralegal who knew the importance of good tailoring.

So let’s revive one of our favorite columns, Broadcasting Style, with an appearance from the woman who would one day be royalty.

What I loved about Rachel’s wardrobe was the attainability.  This is not Claire Underwood in skeins of Burberry and Balenciaga, or Olivia Pope and her closet of pricey blazers.  Any working woman, on virtually any budget, could recreate Rachel’s easy, professional style.  All she needed was an eye for simplicity and a (very) good tailor.

Here are the five essential pieces that comprise Rachel Zane’s wardrobe.  The easiest professional capsule wardrobe to ever grace the television screen.  And every linked piece is under-$125, because, after all, we’re shopping on a paralegal’s salary.

***

Fitted Pencil Skirts.  In nearly every episode, Rachel was wearing a perfectly-fitted pencil skirt.  Making this the foundation of any Zane-inspired look.

If you love a pencil skirt, I recommend having two black, one navy, one grey, one white, and one color in your wardrobe.  Why two black?  Because they get worn, and dry cleaned the most, so being able to alternate will keep them fresher longer.

My favorite pencil skirts come from Ann Taylor.  They’re good quality, affordably prices (esp. at sale), and they always have a good selection of colors and styles.  For a Zane-inspired look, try this white, herringbone skirt, this simple black pencil (in a curvy fit), and this black and white print that is just a little bit different.

Other pencil skirts I loved?  Try this Leith option with a slightly dramatic side slit (you can close it a bit if it’s too much), also in plus-size for $49.  This black-and-white water color print from Norma Kamali.  For color, Boden has a vibrant plum and this ASOS skirt in olive green (fall’s must have color).

The trick to fitting a pencil skirt?  Size up, and find a good tailor to mold it to your body.  It should be tight enough to show that you’re a woman, but loose enough to show that you’re a lady. (Thanks, Edith Head.) Alterations costs a little more, but the results are worth it.  Wellnesting has some tips on how to alter a skirt yourself, if you’re crafty.

Blouses.  Rachel’s blouses were usually fitted, in a silky material, and long sleeve.  Call them a more traditional take on the cotton button-up shirt.

First up, we have Everlane’s clean silk relaxed shirt.  This shirt comes in 10-colors and 100% silk.  Sadly, it is dry clean only.  If you’re looking for silk you can wash, try this BR blouse.  I also like this dotted-tie-neck blouse from Banana Republic.

Looking for some lovely under-$25 choices?  Try this Joan Vass piped blouse, and this fringed-stripe Alfani button up.  Plus-size?  LOFT is probably your best source for affordable blouses in sleeker styles.

Slim-Fitting Cardigans.  Rachel loves a fitted cardigan.  And just like in the photo above, she usually wears them without a top underneath.  It’s a sultrier take on the cardi we all know and love.

For this look, your standard J.Crew Jackie or Factory Clare will work.  Rachel’s cardigans also tend to be white or ivory, and work as blouse substitutes.  So I would also have a look at this pearl-button Kate Spade in a shorter length.

As for what to wear underneath, I have long loved the Halogen camisoles.  But if you’re looking for something more professional, I would go with the Brooks Brothers silk charmeuse camis.

Sleek Dresses. I love a beautifully tailored dress in an elegant shape.  Nothing looks better, is more versatile, or makes a woman feel more like a woman.  Rachel’s dresses are usually in a palette of soft neutrals — grey, taupe, beige — so that the fit, and the woman, stand out more than the dress.

This Ann Taylor boatneck, grey sheath (also in petite) caught my eye.  This taupe Donna Morgan dress with a tulip sleeve is also worth a look.  This white Express sheath with an symmetrical neckline, and this midi-length, short sleeve Preston and York dress are not to be missed.

Need black and navy?  T Tahari always has you covered with simple pieces in great cuts.  I like their crewneck and v-neck dresses.

Simple Pumps.  A pointed-toe, professional heel is a must.  For comfort, I like to keep mine between 2.5-3″ in height.  But did you know that your heel height should change based on the length of your foot?  Alterations Needed covered the topic a while back, and it’s one of the most game-changing pieces of advice I’ve ever heard.

I highly recommend these Sam Edelman Jaina pumps in 2.5″ heel.  I also like Ann Taylor’s uber-comfortable Eryn pumps.  Or if you need a thicker heel, these Botkier block-heel pumps are worth a look.

Got your basics covered?  These INC heels come in black fishnet.  They’re work-friendly with a bit of edge.  Just keep the rest of the outfit very professional.  (Pro tip: These are not heels to wear with a suit.)

***

Looking for more Broadcasting Style?  Check out these previous posts.  Have a character to recommend for the next breakdown?  Leave your thoughts in the comments.

{this post contains affiliate links that may generate commission for the author}