Contrary to popular belief, before the office, the blazer was a uniform trademark of a variety of boating and maritime sports. It gradually became the official “prep” school kid attire for those that were part of the rowing club in Universities such as Oxford and Durham, connoting a sense of status and achievement. Fast forward to the 60s, 70s, and 80s, you’re sure to find echoes of this iconic piece of fashion in the styles of the British Mod’s and the famed Power Suit (think: defined shoulders and serious padding!).
Now, since becoming a boardroom essential the blazer has undergone a few changes in the last few years – especially in the Instagram era, to become synonymous with the must-have item every season! The following women provide some serious blazer inspo when it comes to refashioning and redefining when and how the blazer works for them. Check out the following styles and be sure to let us know which one you’re wishing to steal this summer!
I’m so over (sized) it
Classic yet comfy, the oversized look is for everyone and these fashionistas have offered a range of ways to wear it. Whether you’re getting ready to boss your 9 to 5 or have brunch with the girls, the oversized blazer is a very versatile piece that can be styled for day or night.
@love_aesthetics is a Netherlands based creative mastermind. Iva’s feed never fails to inspire, just take in this oversized white pantsuit, spiced up with a pop of neon green! What’s not to love?
I am living for what @lexxmmora has done with her oversized blazer! She’s put together a teal jacket with a crisp white shirt – clean and classic.
A real switch up from your office attire! @oliviapezzente pairs her blazer with a long belt and biker shorts. A look that I’m sure you could recreate using some wardrobe staples.
Bare it all
Think afternoon meeting at 3, nighttime mingle at 7. The barely-there look is a sexy spin on a traditionally conservative outfit. Paired with either a bright colored bandeau, a lacey bralette, or if you dare– braless! My favorite bare it all look is part of Versace’s S/S 2005 collection which featured a gorgeous powder blue blazer and shorts combination. *heart eyes*
@carolineeltoft goes sleek and stylish in this simple yet effective all black suit. No top required, just accessories. Take notes class!
@josefinhj inspires me with this olive pantsuit. Clearly not scared to catch a cold, she pairs her suit with a statement chunky coin necklace and white criss-cross flatforms. Tres chic.
Serving looks with this sultry black blazer dress, @flammedepigalle provides us with the perfect date night blueprint. This look screams class without all the effort.
For the love of texture
Textured blazers are a perfect way to get away from the basic and to explore new depths of your style. If you go for simple monotone colors, going for a black leather blazer will still give you the same minimal look, with a sleek twist, sure to make you stand out from the crowd.
This look gives me serious purple rain vibes! Never one to disappoint, @edielibertyrose’s metallic purple jacket is sure to brighten up your everyday casual.
@wuzg00d is another Instagram legend who spoils us with her daring outfit inspo. I love this brown velveteen blazer with the gold detailing, expertly paired with some cheetah print pants and subtle pops of lilac – balancing out this look perfectly.
Leather, check. Fitted, check. Perfection, check and check. Edie knows how to switch it up!
Suit yourself
Talk about a classy woman! Anyone who dares to cross a suited and booted beauty has another thing coming. There’s a certain level of respect I believe a woman in a suit demands – they don’t call it the ‘power suit’ for nothing! Blow away the boardroom and take back your power with these two-piece winners.
@samimiro means business in this two-piece checked print suit. She’s paired it with a gorgeous white lace corset.
This piece rocked by @missbantu_ is to die for! It has all the sharp lines of a suit with the flair of a fashionista.
Suits can also mean cute, as @aimeesong has proved! I love this lilac skirt and blazer combo which she’s styled with some of that signature gold jewellery and a plain white tee.
Color outside the lines
Going colorful is all about being playful and fun with your fashion. It’s important for us to challenge our selves through our fashion choices and I think using a structured basic such as the blazer is an easy way to shake things up. Go for a muted tone or totally wow in neon, it’s up to you how much fun you want to have!
@emily.j.odonnell can’t be missed in this muted cornflower blue suit. Worn with all black accessories the colour especially stands out against the city backdrop. This is one killer fit for a girl on the go!
This repurposed Nike blazer jacket is a hallmark of @trynaborganic’s exciting line of sustainable clothing. It’s business in the front, all party in the back and comes in a range of bold colors.
by Elisheba Akalawu
