A simple change of blazer and/or shoes can do totally reinvent any outfit. With a great blazer and heels, we can change the world ladies!
It’s no secret I love a blazer. In my eyes, they’re the perfect finishing touch to any look. A simple change of blazer and/or shoes can do totally reinvent any outfit. With a great blazer and heels, we can change the world ladies!
Since I can’t get enough of them and as my collection seems to be getting larger and larger, I thought I’d share everything you need to know about buying a blazer and what to look out for in order to get the most out of it.
Sizing
My first and biggest tip is sizing. With blazers, I either go one of two ways, I either size up or size down.
If you’re looking for a blazer which you can wear throughout the day with anything and everything that always looks chic, then this is when you size up.
I tend to size up purely for one reason and that’s so I can throw the blazer over my shoulders. If you’ve been around the blog for a while, you’ll know this is my favourite look (you can previous examples HERE, HERE & HERE). In order for it to hang properly, it has to be on the larger side. It doesn’t work with a jacket that is exactly your size, as it crumples up at the back and is difficult to keep balanced on your shoulders.
For those moments you want to actually wear it, if it does look too oversized on, then I recommend ruching the sleeves up. It’s amazing how this can change the whole aesthetic of the jacket and automatically create a better fit.
Reasons to size down are jackets/blazers look so much more elegant when they’re fitted. They give a really defined silhouette. This is especially true if it’s really well tailored and perfectly cinches you in at the waist. If you’re looking for a blazer to wear in the evening or on formal occasions I would definitely recommend a smaller size than you’d usually wear.
I’m going to be totally frank by letting you know if you do size down, don’t expect the blazer to be the height of comfort. It will be tight and restrictive, especially around the arms and back. However, it is SO worth it for the polished and perfectly structured look it creates.
Buttoned Up or Undone
One of the age-old debates when it comes to blazers is to button it up or leave it undone. Personally, I like both BUT anybody I’ve ever spoken to who is a real connoisseur of fashion, has always told me you never button a jacket up. It’s OK to belt it but definitely not do the buttons up.
This is quite handy to know if you do end up sizing down, as it does not matter if you can’t actually do the jacket up. It’s better to have that defined shape and not worry about being able to close it.
Where to Buy
Although I own and wear blazers from the luxury brands right through to the high street ones, I have to be honest and say the more expensive ones outrank the cheaper ones on every front.
Out of all Ready-to-Wear I think a blazer is the most important piece to invest in. A beautifully cut, good quality blazer will never go out of style and trust me when I say you’ll wear it time and time again. The amount of wear I get out of mine is insane.
If you can afford it then Balmain is the obvious choice. I’ve only had the Double-Breasted Blazer for a couple of months but without a shadow of a doubt it’s the best blazer I’ve ever owned. The quality of the fabric, weight of the buttons and its perfect lining, makes it worth every penny.
It’s worth noting both of my Balmain blazers were bought preloved, so you don’t necessarily have to spend the full £1500+ to get your hands on one (you can read about me buying both HERE & HERE). Plus, in the past I’ve seen seasonal colours go on sale but these always sell out really fast, so act quick if you want one!
If you can’t or don’t want to splash out huge amounts on a jacket then the best place is ZARA. I bought a gorgeous jacket from ZARA, almost 10 years ago, as a substitute for when I initially fell in love with Balmain blazers but couldn’t afford one and it’s still going strong.
Tailoring
Lastly, you can always tailor a blazer to get that perfect shape. A jacket can be altered at least one size up or down. This basically means if you want to rock the oversized trend this year but next year, you want something more fitted, you could always have it taken in. Just make sure you go to an amazing tailor (have a friend recommend you one) or you may end up broken hearted if they ruin it!
Outfit details: Grey Blazer – Balmain (similar HERE & HERE – I’m thinking about buying this one as I LOVE the colour!) | Black Blazer – Balmain (similar HERE & HERE) | Jeans – Pierre Balmain (find HERE on SALE) | Shirt – Kate Moss x Equipment (find HERE on SALE or similar HERE) | Shoes – Saint Laurent (find HERE & the stunning boot version HERE) | Trainer – Adidas (find HERE)
Don’t forget you can also keep up with me on Instagram @thatnewdress, Twitter @thatnewdress, Bloglovin That New Dress, Snapchat thatnewdress and Depop @dominiquew.
Oh yes, I do definitely agree with all of your points here darling! I love your blazer and how you styled it in this look <3
xx, Carmen – http://carmitive.com
I love so much the shoulders of your blazer !
xx,
Margot
https://troughthepasturesofthesky.com/
I am loving that colour tone and that amazing ombré jeans on you. Your colour palette is equally stylish and this pictures are absolutely stunning .
New post on my blog . Do drop by soon <3 ✿thefashionflite
I don’t own a blazer yet but these are some great tips!
Kiss*
Daniela Santos Blog | Instagram
Absolutely love this article!! Your tips are so helpful! I work for Suitsupply and they just launched their sister brand, Suistudio. Have you heart from them? Xx Susanne – http://bagatyou.com
You make a great point about blazers and jacket looking far more chic when fitted; sizing down is a fabulous tip. As always, you look picture perfect – that grey blazer is stunning.
aglassofice.com
x
I love your look!
Have a happy week.
https://nairgraphies.com/blog/
Thank you for tips! I think I should try to wear a blazer someday
https://leraseyo.blogspot.com
Fab style!
Have a nice evening!
Gil Zetbase
Great post! You look so cute!
http://iameleine.blogspot.com/
http://www.instagram.com/iameleineblog/
Love the blazers!!!
xx- Nina
http://www.ninalnguyen.com/2017/09/feeling-blue-with-dream-pairs.html
Totally agree girl! Blazers are literally everything and perfectly style up an outfit! Love the way you pieced it together!
http://melinspired.com/amazon-fashion-10-pieces/
I absolutely love wearing blazers! They work so well to make an outfit go from casual to formal. For me the allowance for shoulder movement is essential xx
Bernice | IG@bunnybernice
https://www.bunnybernice.com/single-post/2017/09/06/Verdem-Cleopatra-Review—24karat-Gold-Facial
You’ve inspired me to wear blazers. I never used to wear them but after seeing how easily you style then I’ve been rocking a few and have even gotten lots of compliments. You look sporty and chic.
These blazers look so good on you, I love the shoulders on the black one
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
I love the entire outfit! Blazers are so staple and I love how you styled it! Thanks for the tips!
http://violettedaily.com
Thanks a lot 😀
amazing, useful and helpful tips my friend 😀
btw, I also loooove your jeans 😀 OMG!
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Love both of those blazers – they look fab with those ombré jeans! Great tips!
Heather xx
https://www.hefafa.me.uk
Wow, the black blazer is 2die4!
Love, Paola.
Expressyourself
Love the jeans with this look, the blazer is so chic!
Anika xo | anikamay.co.uk
I really have to thank you a lot for the tips about size up and size down the blazers, I will consider them since I have problems with my weight, I loose and gain weight often and often I have to give up jackets and blazers because are not fitted anymore. Now I know how to still wear them.
P.s: your look is great, the combination of textures and shades of color is great
Wish you a fantastic day!
Greetings,
Flo from
https://femeieastazi.blogspot.com
Great tips and I love the grey blazer.You look great in it.
http://sophieatieno.com
You have a wonderful blog. Keep it up!
Let’s keepp in touch and follow each other.
Vilma
http://mateatme.blogspot.com.es
I am a huge fan of blazers and I totally agree with you, sizing is one of the key when shopping for a perfect blazer, the cut also matter.
love your post,
Sonia
http://www.soniaaicha.com
That blazer is a DREAM. I love the shoulders!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Great post, I like it 🙂 you look awesome, I love your shoes, sneakers and blazers 🙂
new post
http://mensfashionobsession.com/
What a great look with denims and blazor. Love it. And thse shoes <3 <3
Vaishali
http://www.vivaciouswish.com/2017/09/06/duh/
love your unique jeans 😀
have a nice day
http://www.luchluchcraft.com
You look so chic!! I have never owned a blazer ! So thank you so much for sharing these tips! <3 I will definitely keep it in mind when I purchase one! 🙂
Lots of Love,
Shivangi
Great look!
Such an original blazer, so stylish ! 🙂
Have a wonderful day,
Olivia
http://www.oliviaponcelet.com <3
https://www.instagram.com/oliviaponcelet/ <3
LOVE THE JEANS ! 🙂
http://saralookbook.blogspot.com
I love how you’re able to tone up the dressy look with that faded jeans! Your style is super classy! 🙂
Angelie // Hayan Collagen Anti Aging Wrinkle Skin Toner
Very detailed tips, thank you for this. I will check on your recommended stores.
StyleSprinter Blog by Katya Bychkova
I love rocking blazers, but so many people have no idea that you can get different styles depending on your body type! I have a short upper body so I’m super obsessed with cropped blazers haha!
xo,
H
http://firsttimethings.com
That’s where I get annoyed with blazers too. I love on the shoulders, but you always need them bigger to sit straight, but I mostly prefer tighter, fitted jackets because I have narrow shoulders so they can always look sloppy and loose. It’s a complex thing! Love your grey one though!
Raindrops of Sapphire
I love wearing a blazer this time of year. Some great tips in this post!
Your ombre denim jeans are super chic too
Lyndi
http://www.stylecalling.com
Such a cute blazer you got there dear! I love blazers as well, they’re extremely versatile and easy to style. And of course, they’re very funcional, especially for fall.
P.S. Your hair is gorgeous!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
So glad you agree hun xx
They’re pretty statement, but I love them! xx
You’re such a sweetie, thank you doll xx
Ooooh you so need one! xx
Oooh no, I don’t know that brand, I will have to look into it! xx
You are the sweetest, thank you so much lovely xx
Thank you Marian xx
Yes, you so should! I wear them with everything!! xx
Thank you darling xx
Thanks Eleine xx
Thank you so much hun xx
Aren’t they just the best?! I wear them with everything xx
Blazers are the best! xx
Yay, that makes me so happy to hear! Glad you’ve been rocking them hun xx
Thank you so much hunny! xx
So glad you found it helpful hunny! xx
Thank you so much! These jeans are oldie but goodies xx
Haha thanks darling! xx
You’re so sweet darling xx
I flutuate with my weight a lot but sizing up definitely gives you that extra room! xx
Thank you Sophie xx
Thank you so much, that’s a lovely comment xx
Absolutely, I agree! Cut is very important too xx
Thanks hunny, they are definitely statement xx
Awww thank you so much doll xx
Can’t beat a denim/blazer combo in my book! Haha xx
Yassss! You need one in your life! xx
Thank you xx
Thank you so much Olivia xx
Thanks hunny! xx
You really are so lovely, thank you! xx
That’s great to hear xx
Totally agree, cropped ones are always a good option xx
So glad you like the tips hunny xx
Thank you so much lovely xx
You’re so right! Finding the first one can be a bit of a faff! xx
Thank you so much doll, great to hear you think the tips are good! xx
You’re so right, they are incredibly versatile! Thank you for the lovely comment doll xx
OMG; this ombre Jeans is everything!!!!! 🙂
LOVE this look too!
XX,
http://www.ChristinaKey.com
♥
Thank you so much hunny xx