Ever feel like you need to step it up from your usual casual jackets, like denim or bombers, but not quite ready for a full suit? When you're facing events like weddings, interviews, or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance, the old saying, "If in doubt, dress up," couldn't be more true. And when it comes to dressing up without overdoing it, nothing beats a good blazer.
Some guys may hesitate, thinking, "A blazer? Isn’t that part of a suit?" I get it - I used to feel the same way. In fact, I've never owned a complete suit, but I’ve got a solid collection of blazers. For me, blazers are the perfect go-to whenever I want to look sharp without going all the way formal.
What Exactly is a Blazer?
There are three types of jackets that often get confused: the suit jacket, the sport jacket, and the blazer. While they may look similar, they each have their own vibe 😂.
Suit Jacket: Part of a matching suit, worn with coordinating pants, and sometimes a vest in a three-piece suit.
Sport Jacket: Originally designed for outdoor activities, sport jackets are less formal, often thicker, and come in various colors and patterns.
Blazer: A blazer sits comfortably between a suit and a sport jacket. It’s unstructured, often in a lightweight fabric, and typically navy with brass buttons. If there’s a pattern, it’s subtle, like pinstripes or chalk stripes. It comes in single- or double-breasted options, giving you just enough polish while keeping things laid-back.
Today’s fashion is more flexible than ever, and you’ll see these lines blur between jacket styles. But when it comes down to it, a blazer is your ideal choice for something lightweight, elegant, and stylish without going full-on formal.
How to Style a Blazer for Any Occasion
Blazer with a Shirt and Tie
If you're looking to keep things formal but not as stiff as a full suit, this is your go-to combo. Think preppy style: a navy blazer, button-down shirt, khaki or beige chinos, a knit tie, and loafers or even sneakers.
Try pairing a navy blazer with a light denim shirt, beige pants, and dark brown loafers. Add a striped tie for a standout look.
Blazer with a Shirt and Sweater
For a more relaxed vibe, ditch the tie and layer a pullover or cardigan over your shirt. Go for neutral-colored, mid-weight sweaters to keep things versatile. Pair this with chinos or jeans.
A gray blazer with a white button-down, a darker gray sweater, black jeans, and white sneakers is an effortless win.
Don’t forget to throw in a pocket square for an added touch of style.
Blazer with a T-shirt
One of my favorite go-tos for cooler weather is rocking a blazer over a plain, slim-fit crew neck T-shirt. Just make sure the T-shirt isn’t too long; it should hit about 3-4 cm below your hips to avoid peeking out from under the blazer. Polo shirts work great here too.
Try that same navy blazer from earlier (to really show its versatility), paired with different shades of beige in your T-shirt, pants, and suede loafers.
When it comes to pants, you’ve got tons of options. Jeans, chinos, or even dress pants (if you’re tucking in the T-shirt) can all work. Finish the look with a clean pair of white sneakers to keep it fresh.
Blazer with a Turtleneck Sweater
Perfect for cold weather, a turtleneck sweater paired with a blazer gives off a modern, refined vibe. Stay away from thick, chunky sweaters - stick with thin, fitted styles for the best results.
For a sharp look, try pairing a dark olive blazer with a burgundy turtleneck, gray flannel checkered pants, and brown monk strap shoes. The result is both stylish and seasonally appropriate.
Pro Tips for Blazer Beginners:
Start with a single-breasted blazer with two buttons for versatility.
Navy and gray are the safest, most versatile color options.
Wool and cotton are common fabrics, but for warmer weather, linen works well too.
Fit is everything: Make sure the shoulders fit well and the sleeves allow easy arm movement. When standing, your shirt cuffs should peek out about 1 cm from the sleeves.
Don’t go too tight! Remember, you’ll likely be layering underneath.
When pairing with pants, contrast is key—opt for colors that complement without being too matchy-matchy.
A big thanks to H Tailor for providing the products featured in this guide!
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