Having a versatile wardrobe enables you to feel confident that you are covered for any situation that may arise, either at work or in a social situation.
How we dress largely projects our personality, confidence and professionalism to those around us. However, with smart / casual jackets there are a few general pointers to consider around what’s most appropriate and when.
So as you ponder the differences between a jacket or a blazer, we thought this handy guide might help you to decide which option is best for the occasion.
Identifying a Suit Jacket
The first and perhaps most obvious difference between a suit jacket and a blazer is that a suit jacket will always come with a matching pair of trousers.
It doesn’t mean it will always have to be worn as a 2 piece, but it’s the way you buy it off the peg.
Out of these 2 jackets, a suit jacket is the most formal style and is usually worn to weddings, dinners and other formal events, or in a work environment that puts emphasis on the smart and professional look!
Suit jackets are often available in many styles, colours and patterns that match its trousers.
A suit jacket is the more fitted of the two and is best worn with a crisp well-fitting shirt and perhaps a tie, and more appropriately matched with a smart pair of shoes.
That said, no-one should judge you for wearing a suit jacket with a pair of smart chinos or jeans if that’s what you prefer! Here are a few main points about the appearance of a suit jacket:
- Often made with shinier, thinner and less textured material.
- Usually has flap pockets and a ticket pocket.
- Most everyday suits have notch lapels
- Worn in many business and formal situations.
Identifying a Blazer
The term ‘blazer’ is attributed to a group of rowers known as the ‘blazing reds’ who wore the iconic garment as they rowed for the Lady Margaret Boat Club in Cambridge.
The blazer then became a status symbol, and students began to wear them around the college and for other events.
The style of the blazer was originally inspired by the Navy who standardised its uniform back in the 19th Century to navy blue double breasted jackets with buttons featuring nautical motifs.
The Navy blazer became very popular and whilst traditionally worn in navy or black, it has evolved over time so that a blazer can now be purchased in many colours, fabrics and textures.
There aren’t really any specific rules as to which colour you choose, or whether you opt for a single or double breasted blazer, it’s completely down to personal choice.
The key features to consider when choosing a blazer are:
- They are suitable both for work and leisure wear.
- Whilst they look best as a closely fitted jacket, they do lend themselves to layering up if you wish to wear a jumper or a roll neck underneath
- They pair well with denim or chinos and pretty much any footwear of choice.
- They are often made with a thicker fabric meaning they can be worn for warmth as well as for a smart or a casual occasion.
We hope that this guide to the differences between a blazer and a suit jacket will be helpful to you as you make your daily wardrobe choices, and give you the confidence to embrace each day or occasion with confidence and style!
For any further information do not hesitate to contact or meet with one of our team in store.