Fall - January 31, 2018

Wardrobe Essential: The Black Blazer

black blazer with jeans outfit
brighton keller wearing black blazer with jeans
black blazer and jeans outfit
prada patent leather pumps with cropped jeans, black blazer and crewneck tee with chanel jumbo bag
brighton keller wearing black blazer with jeans

I’ve been purging my closet a bit lately and all this paring down has me thinking about which items in my closet I wear the most. And of those items, I’ve been thinking about which ones I would consider to be ride-or-die wardrobe essentials. I’ve got a list going and a classic blazer blazer is certainly on it.

I’ve come to realize there are two main types of black blazers: the fashion type and business. I used to have several of the latter, but since leaving my job as a CPA, I’ve gotten rid of my not-so-cute black blazers that matched my not-so-cute pants (that made my complete “business professional” outfit for my I-banking interviews in school and other special days as a CPA etc. lol). All that to say, we’re left with just the fun, fashion-y type black blazer, which is way more fun and versatile too.

I wanted to dedicate today’s post to talking about why you need a chic black blazer if you don’t aleady have one. And in doing so, I’m sharing this easy black blazer with jeans outfit I put together for a night out with friends. I wanted to look chic, but not like I was trying too hard – hence the tee shirt on top. But then I paired the look with patent leather pumps to sass it up so that I looked the part (i.e., dinner with girlfriends).

When it comes to putting outfits together, I’m always looking for that quintessential “third item” to complete my ensemble. There’s just something about adding an additional layer (albeit a cardigan, blazer or scarf) that totally finishes off an outfit. Even if it’s warm outside, I still try to figure out a way to add texture or layering to my look – even if it ends up just being statement earrings or a necklace. Whatever the case, I’ve found that my black blazer has been something I reach for no matter what the occasion OR time of year. In other words, it’s truly a year-round closet staple!

I love the juxtaposition of pairing a snazzy blazer with a casual tee – there’s something about it that’s just SO chic to me. I also love a classic blazer with a graphic tee too. This simple, cropped tee (in the look above) pairs well with these jeans because they’re high-waisted.

Personally, if I’m going to wear a blazer with a tee shirt, I prefer wearing a crew neck one versus v-neck. Something about it just WORKS better in my opinion. Don’t you agree? I think having a crew neckline makes the tee-shirt more casual and so it contrasts the dressed-up-ness (yes, I made that up) of the blazer. Does that make any sense? Now I’m just talking in circles.

Outfit Details: Black Blazer (super old)  // CoH High-Waisted Jean (run TTS, expensive but worth it I think) // Prada Patent Leather Pumps (run TTS, wearing size 36.5) // Diamond Necklace (custom) // Bvlgari Sunglasses // Mac Cosmetics Lipstick in Viva Glam II // Black Tee

Some Black Blazers To Shop

I spent some time scouring the internet to try and find the best black blazers currently available! Please let me know if I left out any that TEAMBTD needs to know about!

2 Penny Blue Black Blazer - Lennox

Two Penny Blue Black Blazer ($445) // This one’s pretty expensive, but I’ve actually been eyeing one of these 2 Penny Blue blazers for YEARS. I’ve heard amazing things!

J.crew Parke Blazer in black

J. Crew Parke Blazer in black ($178) // I feel like you can always count on J. Crew to have a good selection of blazers. I have 2 of their Regent cut blazers and love them, but have been wanting to try this Parke style! Anyone have this style or have tried it on?

MURAL black blazer from Nordstrom

Mural Slouchy Boyfriend Blazer ($74) // This line is known for making blazers – I actually own a few of them from over the years. They’re a great price point and fit pretty well. But I’d say these blazers are more laid back than your typical, structured blazer. I think theirs are great for casual work environemnts or for going out with friends too!

Madewell Black blazer

Madewell Tribune blazer ($148) // One of my absolute favorite blazers ever is from Madewell. it’s not this one exactly, but I know this one has 15 reviews on Nordstrom wioth 4+ stars each, so it must be just as great!