The Blazer is a timeless garment and something of a safety net for when ‘casual smart’ is the dress code. However, it doesn’t have to be the boring jacket you throw on to smarten something up, it could actually be the basis of your whole outfit. For 2013 the blazer can be the finishing touch that freshens up your outfit and adds a quirky individual style. It’s timeless, which means it’s an item of clothing we’re always recommending here at MFM. Here’s some of the things to look out for this 2013 when it comes to choosing a blazer.
The Fabric
The fabric is what the blazer is all about; if it doesn’t sit right, then it won’t look right. If you’re not confident enough to make a statement, or just want it for a smart event, then woollen or cotton types are ideal. Cotton is a great fabric for the Spring as it is light and easy to move in, whereas fabrics like satin are more restricting. Velvet is very on trend at the moment and fits in perfectly with the chillier seasons, especially in dark fabrics which create a rich texture and a much smarter look than cotton. Ralph Lauren’s example of a lighter fabric blazer is ideal for both smart and casual events. The dark navy colour means it is versatile and low key if you’re not quite ready for a more extreme style yet. Whereas Zara’s pique blazer with contrasting elbow patched is for the more daring men out there to compliment a rustic style.
The Fit
Like most clothes, if it doesn’t fit right, then it will not look good, and this applies especially to blazers. Leave the oversized blazer look to women because it’s all about finding the perfect fit. They should be slim line, not baggy or tight, and come down to your hips. Go to a recommended local tailor for the perfect fit, although if you’re not looking to spend a lot on a blazer make sure you look for high street tailored ranges or slim fit jackets. Get measured up, and then hit the high street for a blazer which fits perfectly. For a more casual look, the sleeves can be rolled up allowing inside detailing to show through; whilst for formal events sleeves should be rolled all the way down. Here’s some recommended jackets perfect for natural fit.
The Patterns
At Milan Fashion week, there was a lot of animal print, especially with the likes of Burberry, while Louis Vuitton at Paris Fashion week was inspired by oriental prints and fabrics. However, they would look great if you had an eccentric style, but they’re not ideal for the everyday man. But, faded stripes and checks are a good way to add a little flavour to your blazer, without being over the top. Topman blazers are faultless when it comes to patterns, although they are of a cheaper quality than something off the catwalk, it means you can buy into more varieties rather than having one boring staple blazer. If you want to add print or colour through your blazer but don’t want to cause too much of a statement, look to neutralise the bright print or colours through other pieces of clothing. Opt towards basing your look around neutral colour such as navys, greys, blacks, and other monochromatic hues to really dull down your look drawing attention towards the statement piece.
Accessorise
If you don’t have the funds, or simply can’t bear to part with your classic wardrobe staple then there is nothing stopping you from adding a touch of chic to it. Pocket handkerchiefs are a simple yet effective way to project a dose of colour or print into your outfit; Topman’s floral pocket square doesn’t have to necessarily be feminine, but can soften a formal look instantly. Pocket squares are a chance to really branch out and embrace that ‘Teddy Boy’ look but also by bringing it into the 21st century. Reiss have some amazing geometric style silk ones for the quirky individuals, and with a range of colours it will be easier to perfect the final touches to any outfit for any occasion.
So there we have it, an essential you should be looking to implement throughout 2013. With the amount of luxury patterns and fabrics available you can use the blazer for any occasion and keep your look cool and contemporary at all times.
I must be boring I have a dark blue vintage blazer with high side vents. For me it has to be side vents on blazers. I also have three lightweight jackets, of different colours, but don’t really see them as blazers. So now you’ve got me thinking, what makes a blazer a blazer ? (the light blue one at the very top is just a casual jacket to me)
Mr. Butler, your blue blazer does not sound at all boring. The blue blazer is a staple in every gentlemens wardrobe and the jacket which has the most versitillity. If you want to learn more about the “blazer” do a little research on the original HMS BLAZER and see what that ships officers and crew fashioned into their uniform. It was a very smart, navy blue double breasted mess jacket that gained attention when the HMS BLAZER was visited by family members of the monarchy. With a little more research you will quickly learn that the horse and man’s working relationship with that wonderful animal for thousands of years still plays a heavy influence in today’s clothing and fashion designs. Side vents on a jacket are good example of many of those influences. Button down collars on today’s Oxford shirts is another stand out example.
Regardless of what we may attempt to wear, the most important thing for both men and women to remember is that their clothing should fit properly. Ms. Plummer touches on this point with her idea of how blazers should be worn, but her advise is richly influenced by her own taste, especially in “fitted blazers”. (groans)
Blazers should not fit snugly or be too short as seen in many “fashion” magazines. I guess boys can chase fashion and styles but gentlemen know better and there clothing says as much.
Men’s casual dress, including blazers should fit like a well taylored suit, but unlike a suit that demands it to be worn formally or not at all, the blazer can be dressed up or be worn in a more casual manner and still allow for proper respect.
Personally, I prefer to dress a blazer up rather than down as there is already enough casual wear to go around without dragging down our lapels with it.
Your blazer should not cling to your body and should allow for a vest or a sweater to be worn underneath without restricting movement. Though typically reserved for suits, a crisp, french cuff shirt with a spread collar can sling shot your hopsack, tweeds and twills into a position of authority especially in conjunction with a smart pair of polished oxfords and pressed pants.
Bow ties work extremely well with blazers but unless you know how to tie your own, stick with your neck tie. (unless you are little boy, never wear a clip on bow tie)
If you approach your wardrobe in a manner in keeping with a military uniform, say for example, a tuxedo ( which origins are just that, a uniform) you will do far better than chasing whimsical “fashions”.
Keep your clothes properly fitted, keep your shoes conservative, polished without worn down heels. Keep your shirts crisp and clean as well as your pants and please do not wear your pants on your hips, grow the f*ck up! Keep your hair cut and your back straight with your shoulders back.
Your blazer is great piece of clothing but only you can command the respect it deserves by wearing one as it should be.