Discover How Margaret Thatcher Mastered the Art of Power Dressing

Margaret Thatcher, the first woman to serve as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, may not top most lists of the world's most iconic style mavens, like Princess Diana often does. But to leave her off that list would be to overlook how she defined her era with not just her formidable political career but also her power dressing.

Indeed, Thatcher's clean-cut wardrobe earned as much attention as the policies she set forth while she held the prime minister office, from 1979 to 1990. In the face of greater public scrutiny than her male predecessors met, Thatcher's tailored skirt suits exuded a much-needed air of determination and authority, establishing a sense of power in every room she entered (one could easily be reminded of the fashion choices of the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg too). At the same time, the prime minister did not shy away from displaying her love of feminine and glamorous details in her dress. She often softened her looks with a cherished string of pearls or a pussycat bow blouse peeking from underneath her jacket.

Thatcher's signature look established an art of power dressing that continues to influence the wardrobe choices of many female leaders today. With Gillian Anderson’s Golden Globe-winning portrayal of the political figure in the fourth season of The Crown, we’re looking back at Margaret Thatcher’s sense of style and her ability to showcase power in femininity. Here, a look back at six of the prime minister’s most defining fashion moments.