The 1980s power suit became a symbol of womens rights. For the first time women were beginning to be taken seriously in the work environment, and this was the first time they could wear pants. Often the suit had matching jacket and trousers. Additionally the shoulder pads were larger, to sort of give them a bigger, more man-like appearance. Although still feminine, in many ways the women's power suit mirrored that of the mans. Allison Hauke. 4/11/17