Full disclosure: I’m an avid jacket collector. Be it a leather bomber, a puffer or a fleece, if there’s a new jacket trend, you can bet I’ll be investing in it. But there’s one type of jacket I always go back to, and that’s the humble blazer. Dress it up, style it down, a well-fitted classic black blazer is a timeless staple that belongs in every wardrobe. Although I have many blazers with different cuts and colours, my go-to is the COS single-breasted wool version.
I’m hugely into tailoring–be it for work or weekends–so this one and its matching pants come out of my wardrobe at least once a week in winter. Sometimes they’re paired together, but often I style them separately. Wondering what my favourite looks are featuring the blazer or, indeed, how to style a black blazer you already own? Scroll below, I’ll show you.
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Now, See How I Styled It
1. Good Jeans
I love a Western reference as much as the next cowboy, but the idea of wearing blazer with a pair of statement pants is one that can be applied to all types of prints. Trousers with a bold motif were huge in 2022, and I’m happy to say that they’re forecasted to stay as we move further into 2023, too. Much like the below look with leggings, I’m using the blazer here to smarten up some casual pieces in my wardrobe–e.g, a white t-shirt and jeans. If you’re in an industry where wearing rodeo trousers and cowboy boots aren’t too office appropriate, I’m telling you, add a blazer and no one will argue. Unless of course you’re a doctor or police officer, best stick to the uniform if that’s the case.
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2. Gym Class Hero
It’s no secret that many of us are wearing activewear outside of the gym. In fact, it’s a topic that I much enjoy writing about. Why? Because of the never-ending comfort of leggings, a sweatshirt and a non-wired bra. But there are occasions where sweats don’t quite cut it–so on said occasions, my solution is a simple one–add a blazer. It transforms the look from cool yet casual to preppy and athletic.
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3. Goth Girl Gone Good
If you too were hooked on the show Wednesday on Netflix, then perhaps you too are inspired by Wednesday Addams’ gothic wardrobe. The costume design featured a lot that I love to wear–preppy school girl uniforms and black on black (on black) pairings. If Blair Waldorf styled Sharon Osbourne, this would be the outcome. And let’s not get started on the Prada platform loafers, shall we? If you’re looking for workwear, but with an edge, here’s your answer.
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4. Big Knit Energy
This look is all about being cosy. The oversized Pangaia cashmere jumper is one of my hero purchases this season, I have worn it countless times since investing in it. With a baggy wide leg jean and sneakers, I will run errands, walk the dog, and basically just live it. But, as anyone who likes their clothing oversized will know, sometimes you just want to add a bit of shape. Because of the fitted cut of this blazer, I can add a silhouette to a very shapeless item, and I’m always a fan of pairing black with this oatmeal-beige hue.
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5. Suit Up
At this time of year, I wear this suit on repeat. You can switch up what you wear underneath (a cashmere roll-neck for cooler days, a graphic t-shirt for casual occasions), and throw a trench coat over the top, making it truly versatile. Day of back-to-back meetings? You couldn’t get a better ensemble. Date night? Swap sneakers for heels. Brunch with friends? Just add a swipe of lipstick et voilà! You’re good to go.
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Next Up, Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See