Believe it or not, I used to really dislike blazers. Due to some traumatic blazer situations growing-up, I felt that blazers were too stiff and too masculine for my style. Obviously I've gotten over my aversion to blazers and I've done so by learning what to look for in a good blazer for my body and my taste. In fact, if there is anything I've learned from reading personal style blogs, it's that you can't just go out looking for a blazer, or a striped dress or a chambray shirt in general. You must have some specifications in mind in terms of fit and styling potential. If you don't, you will walk away with a lovely striped dress that doesn't fit or go with anything else in your closet (believe me, I've been there).
Recently Inge from This Ever Evolving Life wrote a similar post about her frustration with blazers and what she's learned about finding the perfect blazer. She gives some fantastic tips and I thought that I would throw-in my two cents. Disclaimer: these tips work for me. I realize that your body is not exactly like mine and what works for me might be the worst advice for you. However, I'm hoping that by pointing-out certain factors that go into the fit of a blazer, you will be more aware of what you can look for when shopping.
1. Material: I have found that I prefer blazers made from softer, more flexible materials like knits and ponte. These blazers feel more comfortable to me. Also, the flexibility flatters my body by accentuating my thinner points rather than being boxy like some stiffer blazers.
2. Length: I know that some ladies purposely buy blazers in various lengths to create different looks. I , however, have found that the only blazers that look good on me hit me at mid-hip. Be conscious of which lengths look best on you.
3. Detailing and Color: I think that my style is rather feminine and I don't typically like incorporating menswear pieces into my wardrobe. For this reason, I prefer blazers that have a little feminine detailing like a ruffle or that come in feminine colors (see above photo). What is your style? How can you find a blazer that fits with what you like and what you wear?
P.S. When I saw these French bobbi pins on Anthropologie's website, I knew they had to be mine. I'm a sucker for anything French! Do you have any styling advice for cute bobbi pins?
What I'm Wearing:
Blazer: Gap (exact)
Linking-Up:
Basic Training Corporate Style- Fashionably Employed
Penniless Socialite- Favorite Fashion Friday
Perfectly Coutured and Everyday Fashion and Finance- Three-fer Thursday
Style Elixir- Friday's Fab Favorites
Vodka Infused Lemonade- Très Chic Fashion Thursday
