For most office-going men, a blazer is an essential piece. Even if you don’t wear one daily, having a blazer in your wardrobe is crucial.
Blazers effortlessly complete an outfit and are favored by influential professionals and executives.
Not sure how to achieve that polished look?
Continue reading for our best advice on selecting the ideal men’s blazer, along with product suggestions.
Table of Contents
- Should You Own a Men’s Blazer?
- Key Features of a Good Men’s Blazer
- Classic Colors
- Premium Fabric
- Perfect Fit
- Our Top 4 Blazers for Men and Styling Tips
- Classic Suit Jackets
- Textured Blazers
- Casual, Lightweight Blazers
- Bold, Statement Blazers
Is a Men’s Blazer Worth Buying?
Absolutely, investing in a men’s blazer is a wise choice.
As stylists for CEOs, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs, we regard a blazer as an essential item for any professional man. Why is that?
Blazers are a reliable layering piece that immediately adds a touch of professionalism. The structured shoulders and lapels make you look polished and well-dressed with minimal effort.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Men’s Blazer
Yes, a blazer is indispensable for nearly any business casual, business formal, or power casual dress code.
But the crucial question remains: how do you select the perfect blazer for yourself?
Here’s what to consider when choosing a men’s blazer.
Essential Colors for Men’s Blazers
Timeless neutrals are key when it comes to blazer colors. Think black, white, navy blue, and gray. These shades are perennially stylish and suitable for almost all professional environments.
Consider core colors as the building blocks of a solid wardrobe. If you’re aiming to build a versatile collection, start with these foundational hues.
We suggest beginning with a black blazer. It’s the most formal option, yet also the most traditional and dependable, ensuring frequent wear.
Next, incorporate a navy blue and a gray blazer. These colors are slightly less formal than black, making them more approachable and versatile.
Once your collection of core colors is complete, you can explore more daring options with statement blazers.
Premium Fabric Quality
When we assist clients with wardrobe overhauls, we emphasize viewing their clothing as an investment.
Your attire affects how others perceive and interact with you. Meeting a new client in an ill-fitting suit and worn-out shoes might leave a poor impression.
Conversely, wearing a well-fitted, high-quality blazer and crisp trousers presents you as trustworthy and competent.
Therefore, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality pieces, especially those you’ll wear frequently.
A blazer is a staple for many men. This means it’s worth spending extra on one that will last and maintain its appearance over time.
To achieve this, research reputable brands and designers. Choose natural fabrics or blends of natural fibers, and favor sustainable, slow-fashion brands over cheap, fast-fashion alternatives.
Comfortable Fit
A common misconception is that professional attire must be stiff and uncomfortable.
That’s not true!
We believe suit jackets and blazers should be as comfortable as they are stylish. You should be able to move your arms freely and feel at ease.
To find a blazer that fits perfectly, focus on these three key areas:
- The Shoulders: The shoulder seam should align with the edge of your shoulder. It shouldn’t droop onto your upper arm or ride up your shoulder.
- The Sleeves: The sleeves should end at your wristbone for a proper fit. Anything shorter or longer appears unintentional and sloppy.
- The Body: A well-fitting blazer should button up without creating excessive pull lines. Even if you plan to wear it open, always button it when trying it on.
Follow these guidelines to ensure you avoid the pitfalls of an ill-fitting blazer.
Top Four Blazers for Men and How to Wear Them
As personal stylists, we work with men of various sizes and shapes. This gives us a unique insight into which styles suit different needs best.
We dedicate a lot of time to researching brands, styles, and fits. Here, we’re sharing our top four picks for men’s blazers.
- Classic Suit Jackets
Every man should have a classic suit jacket in his wardrobe. A traditional blazer in black or navy is timeless and versatile.
Its simplicity is its strength.
This type of jacket pairs well with trousers of any color and most shirts. For a formal look, match it with black pants and a button-down shirt.
Want a modern twist? Swap the button-down for a turtleneck and the black trousers for gray herringbone pants with white sneakers.
For a classic suit jacket, consider a slim-fit wool-twill option. It offers a tailored look that modernizes the traditional style.
- Textured Blazers
To add subtle variety to your blazer collection, opt for a textured blazer.
Texture offers a great alternative to prints or patterns, particularly in the fall or winter. Tweed or corduroy textures can give your outfit a seasonal and cozy feel.
Start with a brushed cashmere blazer. The sharp notch lapels add an edge, while the cashmere material provides softness ideal for winter.
- Lightweight Blazers for Summer
Staying polished in summer can be challenging with high temperatures and the risk of sweat stains. Choosing the right fabric is key.
You can still wear a blazer in warm weather if you choose a breathable natural fabric like cotton, linen, or silk.
Consider an unstructured striped linen blend blazer. This Italian “Sprezzatura” style is perfect for summer, offering light, breezy comfort.
Pair it with matching trousers and a blue shirt or button-down for a complete look.
- Statement Blazers
Once you’ve mastered core colors and explored different textures, it’s time to introduce a statement blazer.
This is your chance to experiment with patterns or bold colors.
Ensure your blazer stands out by pairing it with neutral base pieces. Keep your trousers in the core color family to avoid looking over the top.
For a patterned blazer, consider a smart gingham print. The black color maintains timelessness while adding a touch of personality.
