From office to casual brunches and evening events, knowing how to wear a blazer the right way can help you achieve a look that’s both relaxed and refined.
A blazer is a timeless wardrobe essential that can elevate any outfit. Whether you’re dressing up for a professional setting, a night out, or just looking to add some style to your everyday look, here’s how to make the most of this stylish staple to complement your style and boost your confidence.
How to Choose the Right Blazer for Your Body Shape
Blazers come in a wide range of cuts, styles, and fits. Before we go into the different ways to style a blazer, it’s important that you know your body shape and the right fit for you.
Understanding your body shape will ensure that the blazer flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. Here are different body shapes and suitable blazers for each of them:
1. Hourglass Shape: Look for tailored blazers that cinch at your waist to bring out your curves. A single-breasted blazer works best, as it defines your shape without adding bulk.
2. Apple Shape: Go for longer blazers that fall just below your hips. A structured, single-breasted blazer that nips in at the waist can help create the illusion of a more defined shape.
3. Pear Shape: Choose blazers with structured shoulders to balance your proportions. A blazer with an open neckline or a V-shaped collar can elongate your frame, drawing attention upward.
4. Petite Frame: Look for blazers that hit at the waist or just above the hip to avoid overwhelming your frame. Cropped blazers or those with a slimmer fit work well.
5. Rectangle Shape: If you have a more athletic or straight figure, try a blazer with a belt or drawstring waist. This will create curves and add definition to your shape.
Blazers for Professional Outfits
The most common association with blazers is the office environment. Mastering how to style a blazer allows you to mix sophistication with personal flair.
A well-fitted blazer can boost your work outfit, making it appear more polished and professional. Here are a few ways to rock a blazer for an office setting:
1. Pair With Tailored Trousers:
A timeless office outfit often features a blazer paired with tailored trousers. Stick to neutral tones such as black, navy, gray, or beige for a refined look. To add a modern touch, try incorporating patterns like plaid or houndstooth. This combination ensures a sharp, flattering shape for any office setting.
2. Pair With a Pencil Skirt:
To add a dash of femininity to your work wardrobe, pair your blazer with a classic pencil skirt. This combination is flattering and effortlessly chic, making it suitable for formal business meetings, interviews, or events where a more conservative dress code is required.
3. Go Monochrome:
Monochrome outfits offer an effortless way to create an elegant, cohesive look. For a sharp appearance, pair a black blazer with matching trousers or a skirt, or go for a softer touch with a beige blazer and coordinating pants. These timeless combinations always convey confidence and professionalism.
4. Buttoned Up or Open?
To keep a polished and professional image, always button your blazer when in business settings. For a more laid-back but still polished look, you can leave it unbuttoned. A well-fitted blazer will retain its shape and structure, creating a stylish yet relaxed appearance.
Blazers for Everyday Outfits
Blazers are a timeless piece that can be worn in countless ways. They don’t always have to be reserved for formal occasions as they can also be an excellent addition to your casual wardrobe.
Here’s how to wear a blazer with everyday outfits:
1. Blazer Over a Dress:
Adding a blazer to a simple dress can instantly boost your outfit, making it suitable for casual lunches, outdoor gatherings, or running errands. The pairing of a laid-back dress with a lightweight blazer creates a harmonious mix of feminine flair and tailored elegance.
2. Pair With Jeans:
Pairing a blazer with jeans is a quick way to achieve a casual yet elevated look. A black or navy blazer with jeans strikes the perfect balance of relaxed style and sophistication. For a sharper look, opt for slim or skinny jeans, or go for high-waisted jeans to give your outfit a modern edge.
3. Throw It Over a T-Shirt:
For a relaxed yet stylish outfit, pair your blazer with a graphic tee or a basic white t-shirt. This mix adds structure and polish to an otherwise casual look. Complete the look with sneakers or ankle boots for a comfortable yet fashionable finish.
4. Go for Athleisure:
Athleisure is an emerging trend, and blazers are a stylish way to take this sporty look to the next level. Pair a blazer with joggers or leggings for a chic and comfortable outfit. Opt for a neutral or muted color for the blazer to blend between the relaxed feel of your pants and the structured design of the blazer.
Blazers for a Night Out
Blazers can also be the star of your evening look when styled correctly. Here are a few style inspirations:
1. Pair With a Slip Dress: Slip dresses are a favorite for evening wear, and when paired with a blazer, they create a striking contrast. The soft, fluid lines of a slip dress are beautifully balanced by the tailored structure of a well-fitted blazer. Opt for a velvet or satin blazer to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your evening outfit.
2. Create a Tailored Jumpsuit Look: For a twist on evening wear, choose a tailored jumpsuit and layer a blazer over it. This stylish combo provides maximum comfort while giving elegance. A black or metallic blazer works beautifully with a monochrome jumpsuit, delivering a sleek and sophisticated appearance.
3. Blazer and Skirt Combo: Pairing a mini or pleated skirt with a tailored blazer makes for a fun, flirty evening look. Choose vibrant colors or striking patterns to stand out. A silky blouse or cami tucked into the blazer helps achieve a balanced, polished appearance.
4. Bold Accessories: When you’re dressing up a blazer for an evening outfit, bold jewelry and accessories can make a major impact. Consider a statement necklace, bold earrings, or a luxe clutch to elevate your style. Just be sure to balance them to keep the ensemble sophisticated and not too flashy.
Blazers for Seasonal Transitions
With the right blazer in your wardrobe, you can easily create versatile outfits. Blazers are also great for transitioning through the changing seasons. Here’s how to style it for every time of the year.
1. Spring and Summer:
Lightweight Blazers: Blazers are still a great choice in the warmer months when you opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or lightweight wool. These materials provide comfort while keeping your look structured.
Pair your lightweight blazer with dresses, skirts, or shorts for a polished yet relaxed summer look. A blazer over a summer dress is a classic combination that works for both work and play.
2. Fall and Winter:
Layering With Warmth: When the weather turns colder, your blazer becomes an ideal layering piece. For fall and winter, select thicker fabrics like wool or tweed for warmth.
Layer your blazer over a turtleneck or chunky knit sweater for a cozy, on-trend look. Scarves and gloves can add extra layers of style and warmth, while boots or ankle booties complete your chic, seasonal ensemble.
Blazers in Bold Colors and Prints
Black and neutral-colored blazers are timeless, but don’t be afraid to add some flair with bold hues and prints.
A bold-colored or patterned blazer can be a great way to show off your personality while staying stylish and on-trend. Here are some ideas:
1. Vibrant Colors: Vibrant colors such as emerald green, bottle green, ruby red, orange, or royal blue are perfect for standing out. A brightly colored blazer can boost an otherwise ordinary outfit, transforming it into something unforgettable.
2. Pastels: Pastel colors such as blush pink, light lavender, and baby blue are great choices for the warmer months. These soft colors add a delicate, feminine touch without compromising the blazer’s structured look.
3. Animal Prints and Patterns: A leopard print or houndstooth blazer brings a playful and stylish flair to any outfit. Pair these bold patterns with solid-colored items to keep the look balanced and chic.
Conclusion
With this guide, you’ll be able to wear your blazer with ease and elegance whether you’re going for a sleek, professional look or dressing it down for weekend wear.
Don’t be afraid to experiment, as this will help you to find the perfect blazer style that suits you and boosts your confidence in no time.
From professional outfits to casual chic looks, and even for evening events, Castle and Retail offers a wide range of women’s wear designed for different occasions and body types.