What item would you consider the backbone of your wardrobe? Perhaps you couldn't possibly imagine your life without a perfect white tank, or life seems incomplete without your go-to straight-leg jeans. Although everyone may have differing opinions on what item is worthy of being called a hero piece, no one can deny the value of a blazer. No matter the season, current trends, or personal preferences, blazers always will be that basic—period. Unlike other staples, they can shine in every setting. Work? Obviously. Weddings? Yes. Hell, they can even be worn on the weekend. In many ways, their versatility has cemented their continuous presence in every part of our lives.
We'd be lying if we didn't admit that it's also the reason that they can feel, well, plain. Frankly, they're not always the most exciting everyday item! What if we told you that blazers don't have to be boring? Beyond opting for blazers in trending shapes and shades, there's an even simpler way to make yours stand out: styling. With a bit of creativity, you can make the blazer in the back of your closet feel 10 times cooler. In an effort to prove the power of styling, we scoured the internet in search of unique blazer outfit ideas. Ahead, you'll find a comprehensive guide on how to wear a blazer with images, styling tips, and shopping recommendations. If you didn't consider the blazer to be the backbone of your closet, prepare to be converted to the cause.
Styling Tip #1. Add a Cardigan
Make a black blazer feel more elegant through layering. More specifically, you'll want to try tying a contrasting chunky cardigan over your shoulders. It's a simple way to spice up your staple outerwear while giving off an air of effortless sophistication.
Just imagine all of the styling possibilites!
Our editors swear by investing in Sézane's knitwear for the fall.
Styling Tip #2. Add a Belt
If you want your black blazer to feel brand-new, consider adding a belt on top. By doing so, you'll be able to tap into the cinched-waist-blazer trend, and it will add a little bling to your outfit, which is never a bad idea.
The neckline on this blazer is so chic.
We love a good belt.
Styling Tip #3. Add a Scarf
Belts aren't the only accessory that'll make your blazer a bit cooler. In fact, if you're dressing for transitional weather, it's imperative to style your blazer with accessories that will make it cold weather proof, such as a scarf. Whether it's fall, winter, or spring, you'll make this seasonless staple work for every season with any type of scarf.
Chic and cozy? Say no more.
The waist on this blazer is snatched.
Styling Tip #4. Embrace Brooches
If you're searching for a more subtle way to style your blazer, turn to smaller accessories as the solution, such as brooches. Not only is this jewelry trending again, but it can also make even the most boring blazers shine.
Brooches are so back, baby!
Mango never misses a beat.
Styling Tip #5. Add a Menswear Tie
Why not lean into the suiting aspect of this staple by styling it with a menswear tie? You can always dress it down a bit by mixing and matching separates, but this small accessory will show you mean business.
Go ahead and have a menswear-inspired moment.
You'll wear this for years to come.
Styling Tip #6. Layer to the Max
Most people might already style this outerwear with different separates, but if you want to make a bolder statement, consider pairing it with a waistcoat, a T-shirt, a skirt, and trousers.
Boxy-blazer lovers, meet your match.
Waistcoats will always look good when styled with blazers.
Styling Tip #7. Play With Proportions
When you can't be bothered to put in the effort to put on more layers, play with proportions. Style an oversize, longline, or shoulder-pad blazer with a voluminous skirt as a way to draw attention to the tailoring of your pieces. It will give your blazer the dramatic flair you've been missing.
Don't be afraid to size up for a more darling look.
Balloon skirts are still big, BTW.
Styling Tip #8. Embrace Mismatched Neutrals
When you're in need of a simple way to make your blazer stand out, consider styling it with contrasting shades. For example, an old brown blazer can feel bolder when styled with all-black separates. Sure, it might be a simple outfit formula, but it will surely bring in the compliments.
Allow us to introduce you to your new favorite brand from Copenhagen.
There's no better way to dress up your leggings than by styling them with a blazer.
Styling Tip #9. Opt for Bright Shades
While styling neutral shades together will always be a winning combo in our books, it's not exactly a game-changing outfit formula. If you're not the type to play it safe, it's worth taking the risk with your outfit by wearing bright suiting separates. Bonus points if you pair your blazer with other colorful separates in the trendiest shades of the season.
Red-hot.
Nothing bougier than butter yellow.
Styling Tip #10. Play With Opacity
Some of the best outfit ideas require a second look. Take, for instance, styling this outerwear with sheer items. By playing with opacity through a sheer skirt, top, or other item, you can instantly draw attention to your outfit.
Love, love, love.
Look for a skirt with a sheer overlay to make styling a bit more straightforward.
Styling Tip #11. Experiment With Texture
Not into the whole sheer-clothing trend? We get it. Another way to dial up the ante without having to bare it all is by embracing textures. Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of textiles as a way to add visual intrigue.
She's not a regular old blazer; she's a vegan leather one.
The best thing about this top? It will add texture and opacity to your outfit.
Styling Tip #12. Try Unexpected Pairings
In addition to experimenting with different fabrics and hues, there's an even simpler way to transform this staple—unexpected styling. It might seem obvious, but when you pair this basic with things you wouldn't normally, such as basketball shorts, it can create a winning combo you wouldn't expect to be a slam dunk.
The cropped hemline on this blazer will draw the focus to your shorts.
These would look so cool with a blazer.
Styling Tip #13. Tuck In Your Blazer
It can be challenging to come up with new ways to wear a blazer without overthinking it—enter the ensemble above. Rather than just throwing on this outerwear or trying to come up with some life-changing way to wear it, just keep it simple. Tucking your blazer into your bottoms is a cooler take on wearing the item without too much consideration needed.
Très chic.
Opt for longer shorts to ensure you have enough space to tuck in your blazer.
Styling Tip #14. Go for a Matching Moment
By now, we've hopefully provided you with ample inspiration on how to style your blazer in new ways this season. If you still find yourself overwhelmed, turn to one of the most trusted outfit formulas of all: a matching set. It might be basic, but with a two-piece or three-piece suit, you'll be able to remove the stress of styling this staple while still making a statement. Isn't that what we all want most anyway?
It's not white, but it's just as wonderful.
Shop the matching Drawstring Trouser ($178).
Every elegant blazer needs a bag that can match the vibe—this one fits the bill.
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