The humble blazer is a total closet superhero. In addition to being an indispensable part of any business-casual wardrobe, it’s versatile enough to work outside of an office setting, paired with jeans and a T-shirt or thrown over a casual dress. Investing in a good one? Totally worth it. Here’s how to pick the most flattering style for your body type.
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How to Choose a Blazer For Your Body Type
If You're Petite...try A Slim-fit Blazer
If you’re a smaller gal, the key is to stick with pieces (blazers or otherwise) that don’t swallow you in excess fabric, which could have that whole little-kid-wearing-Mom’s-clothes effect. Instead, choose a fitted blazer that hits at the hip or higher, which can create the illusion of a longer lower body and miles-long legs. Also consider sleeve length: If they’re too long, get them tailored. Trust us, a well-fitting jacket goes a long way.
Get the look: Free People ($101); Song of Style ($238); Nili Lotan ($750)
If You're Pear-shaped...try A Structured Blazer
To balance out your curvier lower body, create more volume on top with a defined shoulder. We’re not suggesting shoulder pads per se (though ’80s-inspired blazers will be everywhere this fall), but look for something that adds a little more structure to your neckline.
Get the look: Halogen ($77); RE/DONE ($238); Generation Love ($348)
If You Have Broad Shoulders...try A Collarless Blazer
On the flip side, if you’re more built up top, consider the feminine lines of a collarless style, which balances out broader shoulders. Look for styles made of lightweight materials like crepe or linen, since they won’t add any more volume than necessary.
Get the look: Eliza J ($98); Madewell ($128); Michelle Mason ($290)
If You're Tall...try A Classic-fit Blazer
You lucky duck. Vertically blessed ladies don’t have to put too much thought into choosing the right blazer, since most silhouettes work on your shape. One thing you should stay away from though: a too-short hemline, which might make your body look out of proportion.
Get the look: Eloquii ($99); Bardot ($129); Majorelle ($168)
If You Have A Large Chest...try A Long Blazer
Little known fact: A sleek blazer that hits at the hips (or below) actually flatters your silhouette more than boxy styles you might assume cover everything up. Why? It doesn’t add any extra weight on top and instead creates the illusion of a narrower shape.
Get the look: BB Dakota ($79); Soia & Kyo ($149); L'Academie ($228)
If You're Apple-shaped...try A Draped Blazer
The goal here is to draw attention to your chest and away from your midsection. The solution is to stick with jackets that conceal without adding bulk, which is exactly what a drapey jacket in a lightweight material is meant to do. Alternatively, blazers with lapel details are also adept at drawing the eye upward.
Get the look: Kasper ($75); Lane Bryant ($80); House of Harlow ($218)
If You're An Hourglass...try A Nipped-waist Blazer
Seek to highlight your narrowest part: your waist. Opt for blazers with cinched waists or even peplum silhouettes, which draw attention to your small midsection while grazing flatteringly over your upper and lower bodies. And if you can’t find the perfect fit, try a tailor, who can work wonders on a boxy blazer.
Get the look: LPA ($107); NBD ($198); Acne Studios ($221)