If slipping into a versatile jumpsuit is the key to nailing a one-and-done outfit, consider blazers the outerwear equivalent. “Blazers are closet chameleons with the power to complete any outfit,” says fashion and lifestyle editor Leya Kaufman. “I style a blazer as a stand-in for a low-cut top or as a light layer when my office air-conditioning is cranked up just a few notches too high.”
Blazers may be a more elevated outfit topper than your cozy cardigan, but you can still wear the piece casually. Street-style mavens have worn oversized blazers with pantless looks, and Dakota Johnson has toned down sharp pencil skirts with a closely-fitted, cropped silhouette. Whether you want to dress a blazer up for a wedding or work or prefer a more laid-back look, getting an idea of the type of materials, cuts, and colors available is essential. With guidance from several fashion industry experts, we outlined those options ahead.
Why We Love It: So clean and refined, this blazer’s streamlined cut and midweight fabric make it look deceptively more expensive than it really is. Additionally, the longer length hits right between the hips and the knees for optimal styling versatility. Thanks to its stretchy spandex material, you’ll be able to move around easily while wearing it.
Who It’s For: The simple blazer will nestle right into your workwear wardrobe. The more affordable price tag also lends a great opportunity for trying trendier blazer outfits, such as wearing it with mixed materials like leather or experimenting with pairing the style alongside more unconventional bottoms like jean shorts or sweatpants.
Size: XXS–4X | Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex
Why We Love It: Petite folks often find themselves tailoring their jackets in two places: The sleeves and the hem. To skip the hassle, we went straight to one of our favorite petite-friendly stores that designs clothes specifically for those 5 feet, 4 inches and under. Rest assured, your sleeves won’t drag, the hemline doesn’t fall comically below the waistline, and the shoulders sit on your frame rather than having a costume-like, ‘80s-style feel.
Who It’s For: When you finally find a blazer that fits perfectly, you want to hang onto it forever. Luckily, the well-constructed wool piece will stay with you throughout years of chilly winter weather and its herringbone design is ideal for several cycles of crisp fall fashion. However, the heavyweight fabric will likely relegate the piece to cooler seasons only.
Size: XS–L | Material: Wool
Why We Love It: “I tend to stay away from wool unless it’s lightweight and lined, like this one from Anine Bing,” says Kaufman. She adds that she’s drawn to its oversized fit and broad shoulders, because these elements, “Nod to the ‘90s aesthetic and seamlessly transition from a work to a weekend wardrobe.”
Who It’s For: “While it’s more of a cold-weather staple, I’d style it for date nights into the spring,” says Kaufman. After all, romantic, dimly lit restaurants can be uncomfortably chilly.
Size: XXS–XL | Material: Wool
Why We Love It: Blazers and jeans are the yin-yang combo every wardrobe needs. Of course, this truly beautiful piece wears well with trousers. But toning down its drama with rigid denim and a straight-leg fit makes it look like you mean business without trying. We like how the Wilfred New Generation Blazer has a luxe, Japanese crepe material hanging down frames and hitting a few inches below the waist.
Who It’s For: Looking at your closet and seeing… nothing? These clean lines and luxe fabric revive that pair of dark-wash jeans you’ve already worn a hundred times (as you should!). Plus, the fabric won’t wrinkle easily, meaning you always look on top of your game no matter if you spent the last several hours crunched in an airplane seat.
Size: 00–16 | Material: Polyester, cupro
Why We Love It: This suit means business. The mid-sized lapels balance your chest, while the cutaway front nips your waist and plays up your hips. Even better, the blazer is made consciously from fully traceable wool and eco-conscious mills in Italy.
Who It’s For: This suit’s professional power lies in its blend of wool and elastane fabric. The non-wrinkle materials ensure you stay crease-free all day.
Size: 00–18 | Material: Wool, elastane
Why We Love It: Sweater blazers are no longer your average grammy uniform. (Remember when buyers went crazy over Meghan Markle’s black and white sweater blazer last year?) This modern style from Quince is slightly fitted, sitting closer to your frame rather than slumping sloppily beside it. And, it has smart lapels so you won’t feel underdressed in formal spaces. Its all-cotton construction is cozy, especially under frigid office air, but you won’t be itching to take the lightweight material off when temperatures creep above 70 degrees.
Who It’s For: Calling anyone who is constantly cold but doesn’t think carrying a blanket around is always appropriate. The lightweight layering piece can either brighten a neutral outfit, depending on if you go for one of the brighter 11 shades, or act as a universal base that cycles through several outfits.
Size: XS–XL | Material: Cotton
Why We Love It: Taking a little something old, borrowed, and blue, this navy and cream vintage-inspired blazer one-ups the worn black one currently hanging in your closet. The straight silhouette is a sophisticated, professional choice that will layer seamlessly over dresses and skirts. But, we like that the print offers room for experimentation. For instance, you can pair it with coordinating pinstripe pants to put together a cohesive suit look or play around with other designs, like polka dots, for a mismatched moment.
Who It’s For: While the classic blazer is a pricier pick, its wool construction makes it a more durable option you won’t have to replace next year, and you can wear it through all four seasons. The classic pinstripe colorway adds interest to your wardrobe, but the neutral colors will blend seamlessly no matter your preferred palette.
Size: 000–24 | Material: Wool, viscose
Why We Love It: The stitching is immaculate, according to InStyle commerce writer Bianca Kratky. The jacket is made from 100 percent Merino wool that’s hand-dyed and spun in Italy. This luxuriously soft fabric is also a more sustainable option and thermo-regulating, meaning the blazer is four-season friendly. Kratky adds that while it has a relaxed fit, the blazer is tailored throughout, particularly under the arms, so it looks extremely polished.
Who It’s For: “Because it’s slightly more fitted, it’s less casual and more suitable for a well-curated, buttoned-up look,” she says, adding, “It’s not the blazer I throw over everything, but the blazer I use when I want to look clean-cut.”
Size: 32–40 centimeters | Material: Merino wool
Why We Love It: Its subtly cinched waist signals thoughtful tailoring, which is a fail-safe way to look polished. Lauren Sharkey, a Chicago-based stylist and wardrobe consultant says The Favorite Blazer is ideal for showing off your figure. “It’s a more fitted silhouette, an hourglass shape, that naturally defines the waist and looks beautiful when buttoned.”
Who It’s For: Sharkey suggests wearing the fitted piece “over a slip dress to make them more office-appropriate, with a white T-shirt and a more voluminous bottom like a poplin maxi skirt to keep proportions in check, or with a bralette and necklace stack and jeans for weekends.”
Size: XS–XL | Material: Polyester, rayon, elastane
Why We Love It: It’s easy to throw this double-breasted blazer from Reformation over any outfit. In fact, you may incorporate it into everyday wear, especially since the functional pockets are large enough to store your phone and lip gloss.
Who It’s For: Although three plaid variations have a collegiate feel, the oversized fit keeps the blazer from feeling too stuffy, allowing you to layer it over shorts and a T-shirt for an elevated look the next time you run errands.
Size: XXS-XL | Material: Polyester, wool, spandex
Why We Love It: You might gravitate toward this piece of clothing because its breathable material allows you to wear long sleeves in warmer weather. However, we’re also pretty keen on punchy colors like sky blue, cloud white, and coral that lean way more into a bright, summertime vibe than black or brown options.
Who It’s For: While we recommend this breezy blazer for summer, it’s really for anyone who needs an additional, lightweight layer to complete an outfit. Maybe this polished piece will replace your tired office cardigan, or add an extra pop of color to an all-black outfit.
Size: 0–20 | Material: Linen, polyester, cotton, rayon
Why We Love It: After seeing this piece in person, Kratky says she was pleasantly surprised with the stitching and feel of the fabric. The brand asks for your height and weight, and for you to submit a front and side profile picture of yourself so it can design a custom-made piece for you. Naturally, it takes a bit longer to deliver, but the tailored fit and sustainable practice make waiting well worth it.
Who It’s For: Tweed isn’t only for those with a preppy Blair Waldorf-style wardrobe—its various colors and fringed trim play up the design to a host of styles. Plus, the elongated sleeves and cropped hem favor proportions, especially when you pair the blazer with high-waisted jeans.
Size: Unlimited, customized to you | Material: Wool, polyester, acrylic
Why We Love It: BlankNYC’s faux leather jacket looks ultra-luxe. It has an oversized fit with large pockets and a single button for effortless ease. Wear it with trousers or jeans during the day and then transition into the evening by taking a cue from celebrities like Gigi Hadid by keeping only a bra on below.
Who It’s For: Want a blazer you can wear on a night out? Swap it in for your regular leather jacket, and you’ll look extra stylish with the intriguing combination of a sophisticated cut and a daring material.
Size: XS–L | Material: Polyurethane, polyester, spandex
Why We Love It: Believe it or not pink can be quite the versatile power player if you opt for a muted shade like this blushed beauty. The sweet staple matches anyone’s color palette while providing a more interesting focal piece among your beiges and browns. And, since it hits right at your hip, it complements high-waisted skirts, dress pants, and mid- or high-rise jeans. The blazer’s single-button closure leaves plenty of room for play, allowing you to move in the piece no matter how you wear it.
Who It’s For: This everyday blazer is an ideal starting point for anyone dipping their toe into statement pieces. It balances the roomier fit with a short length and broad shoulders for a classic, flattering silhouette that still feels modern.
Size: XXS–3XL | Material: Polyester, viscose, elastane
Why We Love It: Blazers ruled the ‘80s, and this cropped blazer could be one of the best modern iterations of the decade-defining piece. It’s slightly boxy but still structured to not hang limply on frames—instead, the fit gives you ample opportunity to play with its fun proportions, like, say, wearing it over a skin-tight pencil skirt. Shop from three rich, neutral colors that exemplify quiet luxury.
Who It’s For: “I’ve styled and re-styled this blazer on repeat—I love how it complements high-waisted jeans or adds an unexpected touch to a miniskirt. I’ve even relied on it to elevate a pair of micro-shorts,” says Kaufman.
Size: XS–XL | Material: Polyester
Why We Love It: Rewatch any ‘90s or early aughts TV series and you’ll see a slew of leather blazers (Lorelai Gilmore was a pretty big fan). And while they may not be as timeless as a leather jacket the comeback style is still less likely to land in the trend graveyard. The key to the Larsen Blazer’s effortless, cool appearance is a slightly oversized fit tailored in all the right places, like around the arms and in the back. Did you just shrug into a cool vintage find? We think so.
Who It’s For: Typically leather jackets run you toward the four-figure mark, but we love that this quality Madewell leather blazer has a more palatable price tag (compared to its counterparts). And, we feel better that the brand worked with a certified Leather Working Group to source the material more ethically and sustainably.
Size: XXS–XXL | Material: Leather
Why We Love It: Slip into this smooth satin beauty and it will be the centerpiece of every conversation. The oversized silhouette drapes frames and moves with your body rather than cocooning you in a stiff material. Its luxurious cady fabric will hold up for years, too.
Who It’s For: “Sometimes, I treat an oversized blazer like a dress, with a ‘barely there’ skirt or pair of shorts hidden underneath,” says Kaufman, who adds, “I also love playing with proportions—a blazer like this look pulled together paired with a bralette, layered necklaces, and a midi skirt.”
Size: XS–L | Material: Polyester, elastane, horn
Why We Love It: For a more suited and tailored look, the double-breasted blazer creates a fitted appeal that can be worn over a dress from the office to cocktail hour. This Good American piece is modern, yet timeless, with a strong lapel collar, slit pockets, and buttoned sleeves. It’s also constructed with stretch fabric, which keeps it comfortable and safe from wrinkling.
Who It’s For: The scuba material hugs close to your body, but isn’t too tight to pull over dress sleeves. It’ll look great with a body-skimming dress and help streamline your entire outfit.
Size: XS–4XL | Material: Polyester, elastane
Why We Love It: Many people know Ralph Lauren for its sophisticated staple pieces and this fully lined satin blazer is no exception. In fact, it may be the epitome of its signature elegant designs as its long lines allow the stunning, silky material to accentuate your silhouette.
Who It’s For: Shrug into this blazer and you’ve instantly copied Blake Lively’s powerful looks in A Simple Favor, whose closet was full of Ralph Lauren and Louboutins. Suitable for both work and black-tie functions, the blazer makes your LBD feel brand-new again.
Size: 00–18 | Material: Polyester, cupro
Why We Love It: This blazer is easily as comfortable as your favorite cardigan, but the design still highlights your curves. The collarless style hits you at a spot that accentuates your waist. And, it comes in bold colors such as green, pink, and blue.
Who It’s For: Anyone who regularly commutes or is frequently on the move will appreciate the Camden Stretch fabric. It offers mobility while maintaining its shape.
Size: 14–32 | Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex
Why We Love It: This oceanic blue beauty is a nice change of pace from a neutral blazer. The longer length and relaxed fit give your jeans and graphic T-shirt outfit a fun, polished spin without looking totally out of place. Meanwhile, you can pair it with some loose-fitting trousers and leather sneakers, stick one hand in your left pocket, and master the laissez-faire European street style.
Who It’s For: A longer blazer like this H&M one gives you a hall pass to rock the no-pants look in the office. Pair it with high-waisted dress shorts or a skort, white button-down, and low-heeled loafers, and no one will blink an eye—except maybe over how you’re impeccably dressed.
Size: XS–XXL | Material: Rayon, linen, polyester
Joanna Angeles, a merchandiser at Azazie, suggests pairing your blazer with neutral monochrome separates and kitten heels, slingback pointed-toe flats, or loafers. “Opt for a top that would work in a professional setting such as a mock neck or button up and tuck into either pants or skirt and for warmer days, drape the blazer on your shoulders,” she says. “For a fresh take on office wear, pair a blazer with a slip midi dress and mules or white sneakers,” adds Angeles.
You can follow Hailey Bieber’s lead and pair it with a hoodie and sweatpants or go commando under an oversized silhouette. Additionally, “I love tapping into a blazer to elevate and polish more casual looks by layering it over a ribbed tank and boxer shorts, graphic tee and jeans, or a monochromatic sweat set,” says Sharkey. Celebrity stylist Solange Franklin adds that pairing it with jeans and a sweater vest is another option to tone down the formal piece.
“Since blazers are a great basic, try mixing one with trendier pieces like a flattering corset or fun knit fitted top with asymmetrical details,” says Angeles. “Finish off the outfit with strappy or platform heels and a handbag in a matching color. For a date night fit, opt for a romantic mini or bodycon dress which will mesh well with a boxy blazer.”
Less is more when it comes to going out, and celebrities like Chrissy Teigen and Dua Lipa love wearing a blazer with only a bra underneath or nothing at all. Megan Fox and Emily Ratajkowski have also sported oversized blazers with a dress, often topping off the ensemble with knee-high boots.
Before you check out, here are some other wardrobe staples you might need to take your blazer beyond the boardroom.
Irene Richardson is a beauty and fashion writer for the InStyle commerce team. For this article, she tapped the InStyle team for their favorite expert recommendations and sought advice from the following stylists:
She also relied on previous reporting from former Associate Commerce Editor Emily Cieslak and commerce writer Bianca Kratky who interviewed merchandiser Joanna Angeles and stylist Solange Franklin.