Ditch Your Jacket. Wear a Blazer.

When we think of menswear, suits tend to be the first thing that comes to mind. In concept, it’s easier to put together. The jacket and pants match, so really you just need to find a shirt and a tie. And there you have it- a full outfit. However, not all occasions ask for a suit and sometimes it’s just not AS versatile as the alternative: a blazer.

Blazers come in a variety of colours, patterns, and fabrics. It gives you the chance to show your personality while still looking put together and dapper. It instantly upgrades any outfit you have by bridging the gap between business and casual wear. Sounds pretty ideal doesn’t it?

Now that I’ve got you excited about blazers, scroll down to see some of the outfits we’ve styled for you. See how versatile and easy it can be worked into your wardrobe. The outfits can be worn for work, a dinner date, or drinks with friends.

Outfit details: Tiger Of Sweden Geo Print Marzotto Wool Blazer $599, Sand Polka Dot Shirt $195, Blue Industry Smooth Stretch Chino $145, Lowell Dante Leather Messenger Bag $385, Paradigma Double Monk Strap Perf Leather Shoe $375

If you’re new to the blazer game, invest in a blue/navy one. Feel free to go for one with a subtle print like this one from Tiger of Sweden. It gives you a choice to either let the pattern or the shirt stand out. This outfit is simple, clean and works for many different occasions.

Outfit details: Blue Industry Jersey Collar Blazer $325, Howe Youth In Asia Shirt $79, Selected Homme Chino $95, Paradigma Fancy Suede/Leather Brogue $365

This is what we call the “Jersey Blazer”. The fabrication is more relaxed so it works great for casual situations. The small details of this blazer make it a winner: the striped pattern on the collar, the flap pockets, and the contrasting buttons. The outfit is kept simple as the blazer can be worn with a variety of combinations. Any coloured or patterned button with chinos or trousers.

Outfit details: Van Gils Ellis Tonal Plaid Blazer $695, +39 Masq Splatter Print Crew Neck Knit Sweater $250, Van Gils Bull Floral Print Trouser $245, Ted Baker Rogrr 2 Toecap Oxford Leather Shoe $255, Sandqvist Stina Leather Handbag $375

It’s highly recommended that you venture out of the classic realm of blues. This purple blazer from Without Prejudice has a subtle check pattern to give it some character. A sweater is a great alternative to a dress shirt or button down. So don’t put them away just yet. Work them into your current wardrobe thinking of your blazer as more of a lightweight outerwear piece. Plan your outfit to work with or without wearing it in case you want to take it off.

Outfit details: Gotstyle Contrast Glen Check Blazer $700, Neuw Lou Slim Fit Raw Japanese Selvedge $189, Sand Sean Connery Rico Knit Polo $225, Paradigma Fancy Suede/Leather Brogue $365

What else can you wear instead of a dress shirt? A polo. Worn with a pair of dark wash denim, it’s a classic. Wear it with a blazer on top, it just got a dapper upgrade. Sweaters and polos don’t need to be tucked in for a more relaxed casual outfit. Looking sharp doesn’t mean feeling stuffy. If a polo isn’t your thing, try a Pima cotton crew neck t-shirt.

Outfit details: Ted Baker Dreamas Jacquard Spotted Blazer $585, Without Prejudice Floral Print Shirt $245, Strellson Solid Cotton Stretch Trouser $198, Paradigma Fancy Suede/Leather Brogue $365

Don’t be afraid of patterned blazers. More importantly, don’t be afraid to pair it with a printed shirt. It can be daunting at first but the idea is to always make sure that one print is bigger than the other and to stay within a colour family. Keep the pants simple and a solid colour so it doesn’t take away from the details. This outfit is great for those who like their personality to shine through and maybe even impress a date.

Outfit details: Circle of Gentlemen Britain Blazer $850, Dimattia Sanremo Textured Jacquard Print Pant $245, Ted Baker Two Aces Floral Print LS Shirt $195, Paradigma Fancy Suede/Leather Brogue $365

Last but not least, a light coloured blazer for the spring/summer season. Unlike your father’s father’s wool blazers, this modern one by Circle of Gentlemen is lightweight. This is important during the warmer weather- no one wants to sweat in their layers while trying to look good. It’s easy to style, so feel free to pair it with prints and patterns. Add a pocket square for a pop of colour.

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