The blazer, which was first embraced by women in the early 20th century, is a wardrobe staple every woman needs in her style arsenal. Not only do blazers help elevate one's outfit, but they also add an air of professionalism and power to any look.
Throughout the years, blazers have been reinvented, restructured and altered in many different ways. But, like any piece of clothing, they also have to be paired with the right bottoms, tops and dresses.
Three stylists break down the must-have blazers to own and tips on how to style this timeless, boundary-breaking piece.
Features to look for in blazers | Blazer types | Stylist-approved women blazers | Editor-approved women blazers | How we chose | Meet the experts
Features to look for in blazers
According to stylist and wardrobe consultant Gabriela Rosales, blazers are the epitome of structure, which means you need to consider fit, proportions and fabric when shopping for the right one.
You’ll want to look for fabrics that are crease-resistant such as wool, polyester and polyviscose blends, according to co-founder and designer of Marcella, Siyana Huszar.
You’ll also want to keep an eye out for designs with a well-tailored fit and those that have a flattering cut on your body.
More specifically, wardrobe stylist Tracy Shapoff says you should "have in mind what color, style and fit you are looking for, and it will make it easier to narrow down quickly what stores will be best for you." Shapoff continues, "There are so many options available in different price ranges."
Whether you opt for an affordable blazer or a more expensive one, "the fit, cut and fabric are key," says Huszar. "I’ve always considered blazers to be an investment piece (if you buy a high-priced style) in my wardrobe."
What are the different kinds of blazers?
There are many different kinds of blazers including fitted, oversized, single or double-breasted, structured or unstructured and full-length.
"The biggest distinction within the blazer realm is the single and double-breasted blazer. A double-breasted blazer has two rows of buttons and is made with more fabric, while a single-breasted blazer can have anywhere from one to even five buttons but only with one column of buttons. They can also range from casual to formal in style," says Rosales.
Also, there are blazers that step away from their traditional construction and some feature more details, are made with different fabrics or have intricate cutouts.
Below you'll find some blazers recommended by stylists along with favorites from the Shop TODAY team.
Best blazers for women, according to stylists
Sophisticated style: Zara Oversized Shoulder Pad Blazer
- Structured and oversized
- Can be too long
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 3 | Material: 74% polyester, 19% viscose, 7% elastane
This blazer is one of Shapoff's favorite blazers because it is slightly oversized and "seems to have a great balance for most body types."
It comes in different colors and is a great everyday piece to pair with your favorite pair of jeans and a tank top. It hits below the hips and adds an element of sophistication (thanks to the shoulder pads).
Class is in session: J.Crew Factory Original Schoolboy Blazer
- Can withstand wrinkles
- Sleeves run long
Size: 00-24 | Colors: 3 | Material: Wool and polyester
Shapoff also recommended a luxury piece from Anine Bing, but if you want something more affordable, this is an alternative to keep your outfits put together. This bestseller can be paired with multiple button-down shirts and slacks for a sense of authority. Wear this into the boardroom and you'll have everyone's attention.
Women blazers approved by editors
Casual elegance: Hybrid & Company Casual Open Front Blazer Jacket
- Feels flexible
- Very comfortable
- Not as breathable
Size: S-3X | Colors: 34 | Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
Writer Chrissy Callahan loves this blazer for its great value, durable material and overall fit. This one is a budget-friendly option when you need to add a bit of pizzazz to your casual pieces. In a previous review, Callahan said that this blazer has a feminine silhouette and "lacks that rigid, stiff feeling that many blazers have."
The essential: HM Single-Breasted Blazer
- Perfectly oversized
- Arms can run a bit short
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Material: 67% polyester, 29% rayon, 4% spandex
Associate editor Kamari Stewart wears this blazer when she wants to add a level of sophistication to her casual pieces.
"I got to keep this blazer after modeling it for a segment earlier this year and it immediately became a staple in my closet. I was on the hunt for a classic black blazer that was just oversized enough without feeling boxy and this one fits the bill. I can throw it over a tank top and jeans, a dress or a blouse and slacks. It works with everything," says Stewart.
Leather weather: Notched Faux Leather Blazer
- Easy to style
- Versatile
- Needs to be hand washed
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 2 | Material: 100% polyester
Emma Stessman recommended this faux leather blazer for fall and winter and she loves it so much that it has become a staple. “I’ve worn it for nights out, to nicer dinners and even to the office. The combo of the faux leather material and chic blazer-style design makes it really versatile," says Stessman.
Plaid-ttitude: Forever 21 Notched Plaid Tweed Blazer
- High-quality material
- Oversized fit
- Very comfortable
- Hand wash only
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 1 | Material: 52% polyester, 25% acrylic, 10% cotton, 6% rayon, 4% nylon, 2% wool, 1% metallic yarn
Associate commerce editor Shannon Garlin has worn this at the office and she looks extra polished wearing it. "I know I will get a lot of use out of this blazer this fall for how effortlessly chic it is. For starters, the fabric is actually pretty high quality and thick. I also like the oversized fit and how long the design is," says Garlin.
Not only does this blazer look luxurious, but the price is very captivating as well. "I feel like it’s very versatile, too. Not only is there an option to buy the matching top and skirt, you can wear it with a pair of jeans, trousers or even over a dress as a lighter weight coat," adds Garlin.
Smooth like cappuccino: Cicy Bell Open Front Blazer
- Functional front pockets
- Can run small
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 25 | Material: 75% polyester, 19% viscose, 6% spandex
Editorial operations manager Jillian Ortiz previously gave a review on this blazer for being a true multitasker and versatile piece. She loves this one for its loose fit and lightweight feel. She says this blazer is functional and has the "perfect size to hold your phone," plus it looks "polished enough to wear to the office".
Give in to structure: Lioness La Quinta Blazer
- Oversized fit
- Big front pockets
- No inside pockets
Size: XXS-XXXL | Colors: 1 | Material: 55% linen, 45% viscose
Commerce editor Amanda Fama found this treasure at the office (well, I did!) and she loved how well it fit at the first try.
"I was recently gifted this blazer and have only worn it once so far, but I can predict I’ll be wearing it much more. It’s oversized without looking too boxy, and the linen-weave fabric is lightweight and breathable. I paired it with jeans, but I think it’d go with leggings and a pair of boots, too. It’s perfect for fall," says Fama.
Business proposal: Liz Claiborne Kate Women's Classic Fit Blazer
- Versatile
- Many colors available
- Holds onto sweat easily
Size: 2-20 | Colors: 6 | Material: 75% polyester, 19% rayon, 6% spandex
Ortiz always looks polished when she comes to the office. But this blazer is from her Nana's from a long time ago and this is an iteration from its original version.
"I like the sleek look it has and how it fits; it doesn’t look like one of those cotton/jersey-blend options you see in most stores nowadays. Since blazers became trendy again, I’ve worn this with biker shorts on the weekends and with trousers to the office. It’s so versatile and so long — since I take good care of it, I know it is something I will have for a long time," says Ortiz.
Tailored to perfection: M.M.LaFleur The O'Hara Blazer
- Inside pocket
- Easy to button
- Great structure
- High price point
- Dry clean only
Size: 00-20 | Colors: 6 | Material: 57% viscose, 41% polyamide, 2% elastane
I've [Espinal] been wearing this blazer for over a year and it's the best statement piece I own. While this jacket has a higher price point, I appreciate the construction and perfectly stitched hemline. The blazer buttons up to perfection without creating a weird gap in the bust area and it doesn't constrict the torso or back.
Also, it features an inside pocket to store your phone or ID, plus the arms hit the wrists, creating a seamless proportion. This will be my go-to for every fall season.
Blazer illusion: DH New York Colson Cardigan Blazer
- Very cozy
- Wide pockets on the sides
- High price point
Size: XS-L | Colors: 1 | Material: 16% wool, 56% nylon, 24% acrylic, 4% spandex
This blazer embraces the juxtaposition of comfort and elegance. Social media editor Kara Quill likes this one for its elevated look and cozy material. "I really loved wearing this knit blazer. The fabric isn’t itchy and has more structure than your run-of-the-mill cardigan. The double-breasted buttons also added an unexpected style and elegance to the look," says Quill.
Unlike traditional blazers, this one embraces the front pockets from a cardigan with the collar of a blazer.
How we chose
Shop TODAY asked stylists for their best blazer recommendations based on fit, size availability and price. Also, we selected editors who are blazer savants and wear them on a regular basis. Finally, we selected favorites from other editors and previously featured blazers.
Meet the experts
- Gabriela Rosales is a stylist, aesthetic expert and wardrobe consultant who integrates astrology, tarot, color magic, and her background in design and sewing.
- Tracy Shapoff is a wardrobe stylist who has worked for magazines, celebrities and styled for red carpet events.
- Siyana Huszar is the co-founder and designer for Marcella, a contemporary brand offering minimalist style.
