Tougher Thatcher Now Viewed as a Power Dresser

British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher has discovered the art of power dressing. Frills, bows and fussy necklines are out; cufflinks, shoulder-pads and executive-style suits are in.

Fashion photographers see the transformation as a reflection of Thatcher’s tougher political profile. She has shed the matronly dresses of her early years as Britain’s first woman prime minister for today’s authoritative business look.

“Dressed like a stylish female executive, Mrs. Thatcher is out to show she means business,” wrote Liz Smith, fashion editor of the Times of London, in the final week of campaigning before today’s general election.

“Conscious of it or not, (her) sharpened-up silhouette conveys a sharper political stance.”

Pictures taken of the “Iron Lady” outside 10 Downing Street, the British leader’s official residence, after her 1983 poll victory show a “housewife-next-door” figure wearing a belted, baggy dress with a clumsy, ruffled necktie.

This year, a new silhouette has emerged for the cameras--relaxed yet super-efficient--created with a wardrobe of collarless suits inspired by the classic French designer Chanel.

Masterminded by designer Marianne Abrahams of the British firm Aquascutum, the 61-year-old Conservative leader’s chic leap into the 1980s is simple and, most important, photogenic.

“The new Thatcher look is not particularly feminine--it is strong, bold and purposeful . . . ,” the Sunday Times said in a recent article on Thatcher’s U-turn in dress style.