What I’m about to say might sound incendiary, but what if you left your leather jacket hanging in your closet this spring and swapped it for another reliable throw-on-and-go: the oversized blazer? With a little more tailored flare, it’s a worthy alternative, especially considering some of the chic styles being released right now.
Its relaxed fit will make you feel like Jane Birkin with high-waisted denim, the epitome of Parisian chic when thrown over a little white lace dress, and have you channeling your inner ‘80s working girl when styled with matching trousers or shorts for a full-blown suit. Shopbop Fashion Director Caroline Maguire sums it up best: “There’s something really classic and timeless about a blazer,” she says. “A strong statement blazer in a bold color or print screams power.”
When it comes to shape, Maguire is all about those on the larger end of the spectrum. She observes, “We’re seeing a huge ‘80s movement as of late, especially with oversized plaid blazers. Shoulder pads are making a return, and I love to add them in to give tops some extra structure.”
And as for styling, there’s a lot of room to play with personal style. Wear a tuxedo blazer by day with denim and by night with a satin mini skirt, use the new topper to add some unexpected color into your look, or streamline the already-bold with a more classic menswear style. Maguire suggests her own twist on tailoring: “If I’m wearing a two-piece tailored suit, I typically pair it with a graphic T-shirt and sandals. It’s the perfect balance of professional and stylish.” To get a feel for what she means, check out the five outfit ideas below.
Feminine menswear
To keep it classic—with a twist—opt for a little white dress and hair bow to juxtapose the tailored feel of a double-breasted, deep navy blazer. Oh, and don’t forget a little bit of whimsy with a pair of floral boots and colorful jewelry.
Acne Studios Velvet Suit Jacket, $1,050
Ganni Slate Dress, $225
Dr. Martens Ankle Boot, $155
Jennifer Behr Wide Grosgrain Bow Barrette, $152
Roxanne Assoulin Rainbow Brite Bracelet, $75 each
Tailored and classic
When you’re looking for an easy way to dress up those blue jeans, look no further than an oversized blazer. Have fun with the new essential, though, by opting for a bright hue or something printed when topping your white T-shirt and loafer look.
Isabel Marant Melany Corduroy Blazer, $885
Agolde Riley High Rise Straight Crop, $168
Madewell The Frances Loafer Mule, $128
Everlane The Square Tee, $18
Alison Lou Medium Jelly Hoops, $145
The full suit
Another play on pattern this season, other than plaid, are check prints like houndstooth or gingham. Opt for a matching set (or leisure suit) and make it feel modern with an oversized blazer top and more cropped bottoms—maybe even an ’80s Yuppie short.
Zara Plaid Blazer, $70 And Zara Plaid Shorts, $40
Wolford Colorado String Bodysuit, $250
Church’s Burwood Glossed-Leather Brogues, $750
Zara Mini Leather Crossbody Bag with Tortoiseshell Handle, $70
Evening wear
Don’t just save your blazers for day wear. Keep them in rotation for cocktail parties and candlelit dinners, alike. Consider topping your slip dress with an oversized blazer instead of a more traditional coat for a going-out look you can wear with ease and the least amount of fuss.
Anine Bing Madeline Blazer, $349
Raey Fitted Deep V-Neck Silk Slip Dress, $163
J.Crew Double Crystal Drop Earrings, $65
Schutz Enida Sandals, $170
Loeffler Randall Cecily Bow Clutch, $244
Suiting lovers gone rogue
When you really just want to wear the most comfortable pieces in your closet, an oversized tuxedo blazer is just the thing to instantly pull everything together. Underneath, keep that tux vibe going strong with a pleat-front tunic, untucked and thrown on over your favorite pair of ankle-cropped skinny jeans.
& Other Stories Double Breasted Blazer, $245
H&M Shaping Skinny High Jeans, $50
AYR The Easy Shirt, $125
Everlane the editor slingback, $155
Serpui Marie Olivine Wicker Bag, $298
If you need more inspo, try these blazer style tips from a beauty editor who wears them 24/7.
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