Finding the perfect piece of outerwear for cool spring days and breezy summer nights is often a source of great frustration (for me, anyway). While it’s fine to choose a classic option, like a trench or cardigan, my favorite solution is the blazer. I'm not talking about the super-snug, Balenciaga-style, shrunken blazers from last season, but rather a longer looser shape. The new tuxedo styles are one lovely possibility, but we’re also enamored with the oversized versions we’ve seen lately on Lake Bell and Ashley Olsen.
My Blazer Picks
Go Long
Balance an oversize cotton boyfriend blazer with relaxed high-waisted trousers; the belt draws eyes to your slim middle. Add novel accessories or a beguilin, not bookish, look.
Balance an oversize cotton boyfriend blazer with relaxed high-waisted trousers; the belt draws eyes to your slim middle. Add novel accessories or a beguilin, not bookish, look.
Layer It On
Don’t give your favorite blazer the weekend off. A comfortable lined cotton version looks surprisingly casual over a lightweight down vest and a preppy gingham buttondown. Pull on a pair of slimming bootcut jeans and some bright sneakers and call it a (Sun)day.
Make It Work
Soften a beautifully tailored jacket (this machine-washable cotton one has strategically placed darts for a flattering fit) with a subtly ruffled printed top. Slip on a classic pencil skirt in a punchy color and leg-lengthening nude pumps to streamline your bottom half.
Take It to Dinner
A tuxedo-style blazer with puckered sleeves looks daytime-appropriate over a brocade skirt and white oxford. Come nightfall, tie the strings on the hip-skimming jacket to show off your shape, and add peep-toe pumps and a clutch.
Dress It Up
A simple shirtdress graduates to sophisticated when topped with a collegiate-style lightweight wool jacket with brass filigree buttons. Twist a belt or scarf around your waist to balance the full skirt.
Who wore it best?
