The beloved blazer has the power to either make or break an outfit. Worn correctly, the blazer can make you feel powerful and sassy while adding some excitement to your outfit. With so many choices out there, it can sometimes be a challenge trying to navigate between styles to find a blazer that both flatters your body type and transitions from work to ladies night out.

There’s a fit for all:

 

• Killer Curves: Try a structured blazer that is cut at the hip – it will be magical! For women with a larger chest or midsection, try a jacket with embellishment near the top or small shoulder pads to broaden the shoulders and de-emphasize the chest and/or midsection. Adding a belt is also a good option as it cinches in the waist and accentuates your curves.

• Tall and slender: While you can never go wrong with a structured blazer to create an hourglass look, another stylish and flattering option is a long blazer or boyfriend blazer. When looking at these longer options, the fit to find is one that completely covers your hips.

• Long in the torso: Cropped or waist length blazers will be your best friend. By going for a shorter jacket, not only will it compliment your smallest point by emphasizing your waist, but it will also give the impression of longer legs.

• Athletic: Find a blazer that is cut with an hourglass shape or is longer in the front than in the back. These types of blazers will give the impression of curves. A word of warning: Avoid blazers with shoulder pads!

• Petite: For my petite friends, pick a blazer that is single breasted rather than double breasted in order to cut down on the bulk. Try a slimmer, fitted blazer as oversized blazers will work against you and make you look shorter. Going for a fitted blazer that ends at the high hip will also give the illusion of legs for days.

• Ladies with Hips: Whether Nicki Minaj is your doppelganger or you have hips like Shakira, choose a blazer that falls just short of the hips. To balance your top half with your bottom half, also keep in mind blazers with embellishment or should pads.

The rule of thumb – for a blazer to work its magic, it has to fit. Blazers must have the ability to close (even if you are keeping it open). You should be able to hug someone without feeling a pulling in the shoulder blades and the shoulder seam should be sitting on your shoulder.

 

Don’t be afraid of some colour and texture!

 

• Find the animal in you: A bold animal print blazer is a great way to make an otherwise simple outfit pop. Key things to keep in mind when sharing your love for animals: 1) choose one print and don’t mix prints from the entire animal kingdom 2) though the rest of your outfit should be more simple in order to let your bold blazer shine, simple doesn’t mean boring – switch your regular LBD for a more modern LBD (little blue dress)

• Baby steps to colour and patterns: Bright colours and loud patterns can be intimidating, but you can still be in your comfort zone without succumbing to the basic, black blazers by going for a subtle print like  pinstripe or windowpane, which can look like a solid colour from a distance, or solid neutrals like navy, camel, grey, or white which provide more options for pairing than bolder colours

• Subtly crazy: Another, more subdued, way to show off a print is to have the inner lining of your blazer be a print or colour. These blazers are great because they can add a kick of flare without it being the main attraction for your outfit. Blazers like these can enhance other show stopping pieces that you are wearing if the inner lining of the blazer is a complimentary colour.

• The come hither look: To achieve the come hither look, one wears a textured blazer. No matter your texture of choice – whether it’s sequins, suede, tweed, or studs, these blazers are sure to make you stand out as everyone will be wanting a touch of your blazer.

The rule of thumb – it’s a balancing act; don’t try and do it all! Whether you’re a fan of zebra print, studs, or the oversized look show your love through just one item. Not only will your favourite piece stand out more, but you will look more hot than hot mess.

 

How to style:

 

• For the boardroom: Belt your blazer! By adding a belt to your blazer, not only do you stand out from those trapped in the work uniform, but you create a point of focus in your outfit that gives you curves and makes you look extra stylish. At work we can feel limited in terms of patterns and textures; however, with the addition of a belt, you can still play up the sparkle while still being subtle and work appropriate.

• For hangover brunches: Though you may be feeling like rubbish, it doesn’t mean you have to look it. When all you feel like wearing is your old favourite Tee or a sweater, try throwing on a blazer over top – guaranteed you will look more put together than you actually feel – and as the saying goes: best to fake it ‘til you make it!

• For the lady with a baby: Maternity blazers + maxi dress = great success. Whether you are shopping for baby clothes or at work, this look can be worn for any activity and is easy, comfortable and polished.

• For date night or drinks with the bestie: Play up your sexy with a slip dress and a blazer. A slinky dress with a structured or long blazer is the perfect way to say sexy and sophisticated.

The rule of thumb – don’t be afraid to suit up! Blazers are magical and can bring the sizzle to any outfit in any situation!

 

Images:

1. Style Inspiration: Allison Teng, image courtesy of Curvy Girl Chic

2. Neo Curve Jacket, $68.43, available at Topshop

3. Leopard-Print Single Button Blazer, $61.28, available at Yesstyle

4. Arnauld Blazer, $225, available at Aritzia

5. Must-Have Ruched Blazer, $33.80, available at Forever 21

6. ASOS Blazer with All Over Sequins, $56.52, available at ASOS

 

By: Nikita Due, Toronto

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