The Best Blazers for Women
Spring may not be the season we usually associate with blazers but I challenge you to consider this perfect transition piece. A blazer is the ideal layer for those not-so-warm yet days of Spring. But I hear from a lot of women that they sometimes struggle with how to style them to avoid feeling “swallowed up” by the often oversized silhouette. They can also feel too boxy, corporate or stiff for some women - even though they LOVE the look.
I recently posted a video on Instagram with styling tips to avoid these common issues and I re-capped them at the end of this blog. But I also promised to share some of my favorite blazers. So, without further ado, here are my favorite blazers:
#1 Zara Roll Sleeve Linen Blend Blazer.
I know, I know - Zara - yuck, fast fashion. I feel like Zara takes the heat for being a fast fashion brand, but they really aren’t any worse than most large fashion brands out there. I have this roll sleeve linen blazer in two colors and it is perfection. My stylist friend told me about this blazer years ago (thanks Val) and I can assure you - it’s an item you will wear year after year. It’s perfectly slouchy in a flattering silhouette.
#2 Veronica Beard Miller Linen Dickey Jacket.
Veronica Beard is known for the “dickey” blazers that allow you to add an insert like a vest or hoodie. I own a light blue Veronica Beard blazer and absolutely love it. It’s more of a fitted silhouette and very flattering. I’m into this Miller Linen Dickey jacket and currently trying to justify owning two blue linen blazers. This color is gorgeous!
#3 Anine Bing Kaia Blazer
This is my favorite for an oversized look. She takes timeless pieces and makes them chic and modern. Her Kaia blazer is a year-round piece and I’m partial to the cream and tan check and the houndstooth - but all four of the colors/patterns are great.
#4 Banana Republic Captain’s Blazer.
I love the gold buttons on this Captains blazer and it’s been a wardrobe staple for me for a few years now. The classic Balmain blazer is of course the original inspiration for this look, and I think this is one item I would say is worth that type of investment. However, for those of us who are looking for a more accessible price-point I highly recommend this timeless BP blazer and it’s an essential piece for your core capsule.
#5 The Kooples Prince of Wales Blazer.
Yes, I am an Aglophile so perhaps it’s the name of the blazer, but this is the ideal shape, fit, and color combination - and it’s on sale! Winner winner. Another year-round item for your wardrobe and the versatile, not too over-sized, not too fitted shape will make styling very easy.
Tips for styling blazers:
Balance an oversized blazer with a chunkier shoe like a high clog, platform heel or boot.
Another way to create balance with a larger blazer is to show some skin. Opt for a lower top or unbutton your shirt one extra button to show more of your decolletage. Then wear a pump or sandal that shows the top of your foot. Showing skin instead of material provides an ‘un-done’, organic, delicate element to create femininity and balance the masculinity of the blazer.
Wear all the same color under the blazer. If you wear all black, all denim or all ivory under your blazer it creates an elongated column and instantly takes away the boxiness. It’s also just a chic vibe!
Try wearing a plain or graphic T-shirt and sneakers with a blazer to balance the formaily of the blazer if you’re feeling like it’s too stuffy.