
Guide
Forget boring denim jackets - these 9 styles are real eye-catchers
by Stephanie Vinzens
No item of clothing is as versatile as a blazer. With six simple tricks, this supposedly boring Basic will upgrade any outfit in an instant.
Do you have nothing to wear again? My bad-closet-day outfit consists of a blazer, which I mix with jeans and a striped top. With this emergency combination, I'm sure I'm reasonably well dressed. My jacket has unjustifiably become a makeshift item recently. Looking at the latest fashion trends makes me want to wear it more often again. This is because stylists from the industry show me lots of possible combinations that look anything but forced.
My favourite way to combine my blazer is with jeans, as denim takes the edge off and gives it a certain coolness. That's why I avoid combining jackets with fabric trousers (of the same colour) - this style only works if you wear sneakers to break up the outfit. As I don't like to walk around bare-chested, I wear skinny jeans and boots or sandals. If you wear a cropped top underneath, the trousers can have an oversized cut (see above). A pair of aviator glasses adds the finishing touch. [[product:12515874,7672935,13085200]]
As soon as it gets warmer, I swap my jeans for shorts and roll up my jacket sleeves. When it comes to colour, I think of summery earth tones for the shorts. In terms of material, I think of linen because the natural material is breathable and has a cooling effect - like a portable air conditioning system ;-) I wear a simple T-shirt underneath. Gold chains and sandals add a touch of glamour. [[product:12568312,13068118,13108962]]
If you're not a shorts wearer, you can wear your blazer with skirts or dresses. They can also be worn in the transitional period, as you'll be glad of an extra layer of warmth on the way to work or late at night. My favourite look is a mix of a maxi dress, high-top sneakers and a jacket. [[product:12712569,12655862,9671631]]
Give your blazer a new look by pimping it up with a belt. If your jacket is not already fitted with a belt when you buy it, you can use any model and strap it on. Match the colour of the belt to the rest of your outfit. This trick will emphasise your slim waist. If you have a small tummy or, like me, hardly any waist, I don't recommend it. Try the next point instead.
As a rule, a suit is bought to fit the figure. Fortunately, exceptions prove the rule, as I personally don't like fitted jackets. I prefer boxy styles (see above right), which give the outfit a casual touch in an instant. I buy these in the men's department. For an instant upgrade, roll the sleeves up to the elbow. To prevent the whole look from looking bulky, pair your jacket with tight-fitting trousers to emphasise your legs.
In the past few weeks, my jogging bottoms have been given an upgrade. Why? For the few times I've left the house for a short time, I've been reluctant to change. That's why I've pimped up my sports trousers with jewellery and a few styling tricks. I like the look so much that I'm going to wear it to the office soon. [[product:12568330,8748966,12467377]]
How do you wear your blazer? Let me know and leave your styling tip in the comments column.
When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life.