Head back to work in style with 12 of the best fashion editor-approved blazers
From investment pieces to high-street hits
Are you a fan of a blazer? Of course you are. The tailored jacket is a staple in nearly all our wardrobes these days, appearing everywhere from the office to a night out. That being said, it can be difficult to find the right one. There are so many options out there that it can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to style and fit.
But whatever your style, a blazer is without a doubt the one item you won't regret wearing. It's timeless and goes with everything, from coordinating suit trousers to dresses and skirts. Plus, choose the cut and style well and it'll live in your wardrobe forever as the ultimate capsule piece.
Trends may come and go, but the styling rules for a blazer have always stayed the same. Contrary to popular belief, the garment didn't start off as formal wear, but rather as a compromise between a dinner jacket and a sports jacket. One of its origin stories goes back to the boating team of St John’s College in Cambridge in the 1820s, while another points to the Royal Navy.
Either way, they were originally worn by men with straight tailored trousers, and that's a look that still works today, regardless of gender (note Bella Hadid walking for Saint Laurent above).
For a more casual approach, you'll never go wrong with an oversized blazer worn over a T-shirt and a pair of jeans (we can't get enough of the barrel-leg style at the moment).
The jackets works perfectly with dresses too, whether that's a slinky lace slip dress, jumper dress or floaty floral number — as Hailey Bieber knows.
So, are you looking for oversized? Double-breasted? Pinstripe? Houndstooth? Or even sequin-embellished? I've found the best of each below. Which one you opt for is up to you.
Shop the best blazers
We love the oversized silhouette of The Frankie Shop's Bea blazer. It comes in four different colours, and is the perfect multi-functional piece. Add to cart now and cherish forever.
A pinstripe blazer is the ultimate in power dressing. This wool option from Jigsaw has a great slate grey colour, and the double breasted style and large lapels scream big boss energy.
The dramatic nipped in waist of Helsa's S curve jacket has seen it become a fast favourite with fashion-fans. It's a hyper-feminine take on masculine tailoring and we're seriously here for it. We love this brown wool version.
Nanushka's leather alternative is as close as it gets to the real thing — we simply don't know a better vegan leather. This butter soft blazer is super sexy and cool, while also being sustainable. What's not to love?
A collarless blazer you say? Trust us — these are seriously chic. This one from M&S looks much more expensive than it is, and it means you can show off high-neck knitwear or pussybow blouses in all their glory.
This wouldn't be a best blazer round-up without a classic houndstooth option. We love the traditional feel of this & Other Stories option. Make like the model and wear with jeans and white tee to keep it feeling fresh and modern.
When we say obsessed...this leopard print blazer from Temperley is what dreams are made of. The nipped in waist keeps it super sleek, and honestly, we would wear it with the matching waistcoat and trousers to go for the full look.
Cos stands out on the high street for its excellent tailoring, and this high collared blazer is no exception. It's a twist on a classic, and it's seriously chic.
Velvet or coloured blazers are a great alternative to a regular party dress. This blue version from Hobbs really pops due to the satin trim collar. Pair with chandelier earrings for the perfect cocktail outfit.
Red continues to reign supreme, and this blazer from Scandi-favourite Stine Goya is the perfect way to tap into the trend. The singular clasp front means this could be worn with nothing underneath (if you're feeling bold) and we love the sparkly accents at the cuffs.
The ultimate investment piece, and the ultimate black blazer? It has to be Saint Laurent. In 1966 Yves Saint Laurent designed the first 'Le Smoking' jacket for women, and the rest was history. A purveyor of sexy, sharp tailoring, the label continues to double down on what it does best. This will live in your wardrobe forever.
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Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.
She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.
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