Bring on the Menswear: The Fall Blazer

The blazer is one of the hottest trends off the Fall Runways in New York and Milan. While the menswear inspired jacket has been rising in popularity the past few years, 2012 is the autumn of blazers. Premiere designers, from Helmut Lang to Pucci, have created their own unique variations on this classic, tailored trend and now you can wear the same modern styles on the street.

The blazer is inspired by the formal men’s suit, and since it’s typically worn year-round as standard women’s business attire, it’s acquired a reputation as a stiff, serious jacket. However, this season the blazer is youthful and versatile, two characteristics that make it a must-have addition to your closet. The blazer can look edgy over a cocktail dress at a party, or you can casually throw one on over a tee-shirt while running late to class. Check out these latest takes on the feminine, menswear-inspired blazer, and make sure to pick one up before September hits. 

Jason Wu took a sharp, elegant approach to the trend with this lovely velvet blazer, worn by model Tao Okamoto. (Style.com)

BASIC:

New to blazers, or wary of the menswear trend? Then try a basic blazer – a well-tailored, slim cut that fits like a glove. Stick to black, but keep the jacket from looking too traditional and business-like, by adding some flare with fun details. Once you realize how flattering blazers are, you’re bound to want another and to get more adventurous with the styles. 

This blazer’s got it all: narrow lapel, single button, and sharp tailoring, including the ventilation slit in the back. The metal disk detailing on the wrists adds a dash of spice to these basics. (Zara, $90)

Another basic blazer, this coat exudes the opposite vibe of the one above, feminine elegance. The peplum waist, asymmetrical hemline and slight puff sleeves are simply precious. (Miss Selfridge, $53)

BOYFRIEND:

As you know, the boyfriend jean trend is a chic, comfortable style, and now you can apply it to the blazer. The boyfriend blazer is a lot roomier than the usual slim cuts, making it edgier and more casual. They’re meant to be worn open, so your lovely feminine figure doesn’t get lost in the loose fit. 

To maintain a feminine touch with this double dose of menswear inspiration, try a bold color choice, like red or cobalt blue, and cuffed sleeves to show off your slim wrists. (Urban Outfitters, $78)

SCHOOLBOY:

The schoolboy blazer is where the street style aspect of this trend all began. With a slightly shrunken fit and button embellishments, it’s a great way to add some preppiness to your look. Embody the elegance of style icon Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, in one of these academic blazers.

H.R.H. The Duchess of Cambridge, who just topped Vanity Fair’s International Best-Dressed List, is often seen in blazers for classy yet casual day wear. Here, she looks flawless in a Pucci schoolboy blazer. (Tom + Lorenzo)

The schoolboy blazer is often seen in shades of navy, but now you can embrace the aristocratic roots of this trend with prints of tweed and plaid, too. This herringbone blazer, complete with faux suede elbow patches and chest pockets, is perfect for a stroll under falling leaves. (H&M, $60)

DENIM:

Denim has been a hot trend this spring and summer, with jean jackets making a comeback and chambray shirts appearing everywhere. Hold on to this trend with a denim blazer for the fall. Make sure to choose a dark washed denim, so you don’t look out of season. Otherwise, this is the perfect blazer for transitioning from the summer heat to cooler weather. 

This indigo denim blazer with twill piping is definitely a casual take on the trend. Adopt the model’s styling, and wear it over sweet and simple dresses. (Gap, $70)

FLORAL:

Floral blazers were an up-and-coming look this spring, and understandably so – they are just too cute. You’re in luck, because they are just as fabulous come the fall. As long as you stay away from the creams and light pinks, and stick with darker shades, the floral blazer can work for both seasons.

This floral shrunken jacket is a perfect contrast of soft and hard elements. The slightly puffed shoulders are feminine and are beautifully balanced by the hard edges of the black print. (Free People, $128)

GLITTER:

Glitter is a delightful trend that has been updated from little girls playing dress-up to a fun and youthful style for young adults. Take advantage of it while it’s still in vogue,  by going for glittery, metallic blazers that are perfect for a night out. 

This sequined black blazer with three-quarter sleeves is sweet and sexy; a guaranteed attention-stealing piece. (Express, $118)

Purple:

Purple is one of the hottest fall colors, so of course it’s the perfect match for this season’s blazer. 

This plum blazer has all the right feminine touches: ruched sleeves, puff shoulders, and a sheer back. It’s simply striking. (Modcloth, $70)

 Featured Image From: Who What Wear

Tags: blazers, boyfriend, business attire, cocktail dress, denim, elegant approach, fall, floral, glitter, helmut lang, jason wu, menswear, peplum, premiere designers, purple, schoolboy, tao okamoto, velvet blazer, zara

Category: Fashion, Trends