There never seems to be a great deal of logic when it comes to the shape-shifting nature of fashion silhouettes, yet one thing is clear: These changes always arrive as a point of rebellion from what has come before. Case in point: The oversized silhouette has had a long-standing reign over the runway over the last five years or so, manifesting in everything from smock dresses to wide-leg trousers. The oversized blazer has remained a particular favourite, embraced by minimalists and maximalists alike and translated in a plethora of ways by both high-street and high-end brands.
Yes, we are starting to see the body-con fits of the noughties start to creep in, but I believe the XXL blazer has well and truly secured its place in the fashion Hall of Fame. If anything, it makes for the perfect counterpoint to complement slimmer silhouettes. I am personally a fan and find that oversized blazers are one of the most versatile items in my wardrobe. With low-effort styling and maximum impact, this hard-working hero elevates all my favourite basics. Think jeans and white T-shirts or even simple white dresses.
Best of all, it’s the sort of thing that looks great at all price points. However, I would recommend checking out second-hand options, particularly from the menswear section. Well-tailored with high-quality fabrics, and usually very affordable, a pre-loved men’s blazer will look super premium belted with leggings and knee-high boots. (Trust me—I’ve tested it out.) But in the meantime, I’ve rounded up six outfits that will give you a bit of blazer inspiration for the season ahead. Scroll down to see more.
Bring a bit of retro appeal to a preppy striped shirt with an oversized tweed blazer and wide-leg jeans.
There’s nothing quite like the mood-boosting appeal of colour and print. Make like Slip Into Style and add a graphic midi to a bright blazer.
Sometimes less is more, as evidenced by A Style Edit’s achingly cool monochrome blazer-and-leggings pairing.
Forest green is a great way to add colour, even if you’re not really a “colour person.” Louisa Hatt nails it with a green blazer and straight-leg jeans.
Chainky looks very Elizabeth Bennet in this maxi-skirt-and-cinched-blazer ensemble. Simply add an edge via a pair of chunky boots.
Tonal dressing is still very much on our radar, and we like how Abi Omole has played with muted tones to create this very stylish, minimalist get-up.
Up Next: 6 Fresh Colour Trends That Are Making Me So Excited for Spring
