It’s hard not to admire someone who oozes confidence in the way they dress. Whether they’re 18 or 88 the charisma, self-belief and style is enviable. One of the biggest trends of 2026 is taking that self-assured spirit and making it accessible to everyone.

Referred to as power femininity, or modern matriarchy, the look takes inspiration from 1980s power dressing, the feminine joy of 1990s girl power and the quiet confidence of modern fashion, to encourage women of all ages to be inspired by their own strength.

For those who don’t dress to impress on a regular basis, it may feel a little daunting, but there are plenty of simple hacks that make it easy to wear the trend with confidence.

POWER STRUCTURES

When it came to showing strength through fashion, the 80s power dressers knew their stuff. Borrowing their sharp, strong shoulders, colour-blocking or structured tailoring can instantly add confidence to an outfit. Try blazers with shoulder pads or a long pencil skirt with unique heels to take ownership of the look.

Find structured tailoring and statement silhouettes at Myer, Decjuba and Oxford.

SUIT UP

For the past few years we’ve seen the popularity of pant suits surge, this time with a modern flair. The shoulders are strong, but the cut is slightly oversized and comfortably relaxed, making them ideal for everyday officewear. The look can be taken off duty by pairing with a smart leather sneaker, to show the weekend who’s boss.

Find sharp suiting options at Myer, Nude Lucy and Forever New.

DEFINITION

Contrast makes an outfit stronger. Think black and white pairings, strong lines and defined waists or simply mixing a pressed business shirt with a soft feminine skirt. Jewellery is key here too, taking cues from the 80s and 90s, with statement gold chains and bold, metallic earrings.

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Find bold accessories, crisp shirting and contrasting separates at Sheike, Portmans and Mimco.

LUXE FABRICS

The modern version of power dressing revolves around soft, luxury fabrics that give freedom to a woman’s shape rather than restrict it. The look is sharp and polished, but also celebrates feminine softness, quiet confidence and comfort at any age. Textures can be mixed up, such as a silk shirt with fine merino slacks, or a wool-blend suit.

Find elevated textures and luxurious layering pieces at Kookai, Myer and Seed Heritage.

FEMININE STRENGTH

From the well dressed Suffragettes to free-living women of the 70s, fashion has taken many forms to rise up for equality. In 2026, it’s about the strength and power in being feminine. Soft textures, curvaceous forms and peaceful palettes are unapologetically added to the mix. Consider a lacy or ruffled top to soften and contrast with a business skirt, or for older knees that are done with heels, try pink pastel sneakers with a more traditional pant suit.

Find soft tailoring and feminine statement pieces at Forever New, Sheike and Nude Lucy.

At the heart of the modern matriarchy look, however, is wearing what makes you feel confident and powerful — dressing up a notch, while keeping true to your own style and preferences. If you feel like your outfit is looking sharp, and leave home with your head held high, you’re well and truly part of the modern matriarchy fashion moment.