Lessons We Learned in Power Dressing from TV’s Strongest Females

They may only exist on the small screen, but that doesn't mean television's most powerful female characters can't teach us a thing or two. Aside from breaking boundaries and going after what they want, TV's boss ladies have shown us that success doesn't have to come at the expense of style. In fact, a woman who dresses confidently and boldly, and embraces her personal fashion sense while she chases her goals is a force to be reckoned with. Her wardrobe is her battle armor of choice, if you will. Ahead, five of television's baddest babes and what they've each taught us about the art of power dressing. (Photos via CBS, Amazon, ABC)

Murphy Brown: As an investigative journalist and news anchor for FYI, Murphy Brown, Candice Bergen championed the concept of a smart, strong woman who could take care of herself — but who was still human (her character was a recovering alcoholic). She broke barriers playing a single mother by choice, and proved that no working woman's closet is complete without a healthy supply of stylish blazers. Murphy Brown's signature late '80s/early '90s look almost always included a tailored topper, usually paired with a high-neck layer underneath and a decent helping of costume jewelry (it was the '80s, after all). (Photo via CBS)

Madam Secretary: Tea Leoni plays Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord, an ex CIA analyst who is a master of politics, compromise, and negotiations. She navigates complex global and domestic issues, all while outfitted in classic pieces that have a feminine twist. Whether it's a peplum suit jacket or a draped blouse, she proves that to run with the big boys, you don't have to dress like one. (Photo via CBS)

Scandal: Olivia Pope may be a Washington, DC fixer, but her wardrobe requires no such assistance. Her look is elegant and retro-inspired — so much so that it inspired a collection at The Limited — with an emphasis on standout coats. The lesson? Polished outerwear = power.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel: Rachel Brosnahan snagged the Golden Globe this year for her role as Midge, a 1950s New York housewife turned comedian. Her wardrobe, however, is no laughing matter. Donning ladylike, swoon-worthy silhouettes, Midge is a study in bold color. She plays with jewel tones and bright hues in the most glamorous way — and inspires the rest of us to do the same. (Photo via Amazon)

House of Cards: Robin Wright's Claire Underwood may not be the most upstanding of characters, but there's no denying this woman knows how to get what she wants. What do we want? Her seemingly endless collection of superbly-fitting sheath dresses that are just special enough to stand out without looking unprofessional. (Photo via Netflix)