One wardrobe item that has stayed in my closet for the past 10 years is the blazer. Every few years I see retailers phase blazers in and out of their floorsets (process of refreshing a retail sales floor) – thankfully I have accumulated a few blazers that have stood the test of time.
A blazer can dress up your outfit or be worn casually, all depending on the look you are going for. I used to only wear my blazers at work because of the business casual dress code, but all of that has changed within the past couple of years.
Blazer Requirements
1. Useable pockets. I have found blazers that I am head-over-heels for – I check the pockets and come to find out they are faux-pockets (back on the rack the blazer goes). Whether it’s my lip gloss, phone, or work fob; that space is needed!
2. Button closure. I tend to use my blazer as alternative outerwear especially if I am out and about on the town, at a wedding, running errands, etc. It’s a feature I look for with any new blazers I purchase.
3. A knit blazer is a no-go. If this is your preferred material for a blazer – you go girl! I much prefer a cotton-rayon blend, linen, sweater blazer, or even velvet. A knit blazer doesn’t have the structure I am typically looking for. A traditional cotton-rayon or even wool blazers are great options for colder weather and a warmer weather alternative is linen because it’s light weight – I recently purchased a linen blazer from Old Navy (similar linen blazer options) and I am all for it.
Shopping for Blazers
Below are my go-to retailers and brands with good quality, and typically, found on sale.
Kohl’s: LC by Lauren Conrad or Apt 9
Target: A New Day
Gap or Gap Factory
Loft or Loft Outlet
Old Navy: linen blazers
Blazer Fit
When it comes to how the blazer is going to fit, ALWAYS try it on before you buy (unless you know exactly how a specific style from a retailer/brand is going to fit). I will either go with a standard-fit or boyfriend-fit, but if given the chance to choose between the two, a boyfriend-fit is preferred.
Blazer Lapel
Notch lapels are most commonly used on women’s blazers and IMO the most versatile lapel on a blazer. All of my blazers, except for one, have a standard notch lapel and I will never complain about it – it’s a timeless wardrobe staple.
A shawl (or tuxedo) lapel is more elegant and refined lapel on a blazer. About 5-6 years ago I purchased this LC by Lauren Conrad floral blazer with a shawl lapel. A few times a year this blazer is taken out of my closet and typically used for dinner parties or a night on the town. By wearing the blazer with distressed jeans and a t-shirt you can easily dress the blazer down.
XO, until next time!
Becca
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