If you ask any fashion editor or stylist the one piece of clothing every woman needs in their wardrobe, they'll no doubt mention a blazer.
Throwing on a blazer is like an instant boost of confidence - the sharp silhouette dresses up any outfit, making you look polished and feel like a boss. There's a reason it's an essential piece for power dressing.
Watch: What the Mamamia team are wearing to the office. Post continues after video.
With brands making them in all shapes, sizes and textures, it's no simple task finding the "perfect" blazer - but this might help. Below you'll find everything you need to look for when shopping for a blazer, and our pick of the best ones on the market.
What to look for when buying a blazer.
Fit.
The most important factor that makes any blazer look good is the fit. You want to find one that, even if it's boxy, fits in all the right places. When trying them on there are a few things to look out for:
Check that it sits nicely on your shoulders and that the seam ends where your shoulders do, that it's not too tight when you move, and that the cuff ends at your wrist. If it doesn't, either roll or scrunch the arms, or get it tailored.
Cut.
Different blazer cuts are suitable for different settings. For example, a classic tailored black blazer is an ideal option to wear to the office - while an oversized, boxy blazer is a little more cool and casual, and would suit anything from running errands to evening drinks.
Fabric.
What do you want your blazer to be made of? This comes down to personal preference. Wool blends are often the go-to for more formal settings, as they are breathable, wrinkle-resistant and make you look put together for hours on end.
Alternatively, cotton blends, linen and even faux leather are great options if you're after something to throw on top of an outfit.
Now that you probably have an idea of what blazer you're looking for, these are our top picks.
The best affordable blazers.
Blazers don't have to be expensive, especially if you're after one that's a little trendy. Here are three we're loving from brands that regularly make cool blazers at an affordable price.
Lioness Welcome To The Jungle Blazer, $89.
H&M Oversize Jacket, $69.99.
Showpo Caralina Oversized Blazer in Chocolate, $89.95.
The best investment blazers.
On the flip side, a blazer is one of the best investment pieces to own, because if you choose well, a good one will last you years. These are some of our favourites from brands that deliver on high-quality, timeless blazers. The first is beloved by our Lifestyle Editor and host of Mamamia's fashion podcast, Tamara Davis.
Hansen & Gretel England Blazer, $349.
Anine Bing Fishbone Blazer, $635.
Camilla & Marc Mae Blazer, $695.
Want to get even more specific? Here are the best blazers according to their style.
The best black blazers.
If you're after your first blazer, may we suggest starting with black? There's a reason every fashion expert recommends owning one in a capsule wardrobe - they instantly pull together any outfit.
Now you just need to decide whether to go for a fitted or oversized option..
M&S COLLECTION Slim Single Breasted Blazer, $97.90.
AERE Oversized Linen Blazer, $150.
Atmos & Here Curvy Jade Blazer, $119.99.
Listen to What Are You Wearing?, Mamamia's weekly fashion podcast. In this episode, co-hosts Tamara and Deni share what goes into the perfect capsule wardrobe. Post continues after video.
The best check blazers.
Check blazers are great options for winter, especially if your wardrobe mainly consists of neutrals. Plus, there are so many variations to choose from.
H&M Double Breasted Jacket, $49.99.
Mango Wrap check suit jacket, $129.95 (also available in curvy).
Uniqlo Women Relaxed Tailored Jacket, $99.90.
The best linen blazers.
Unlike check and tweed, these are best saved for summer. The lightweight material won't make you too hot and the abundance of colours (generally neutrals and colourful shades) make them ideal to pair with jeans, summery dresses and skirts.
The only downside is these blazers do crease, but that's kinda the look with linen, right?
Witchery Relaxed Linen Blazer, $129.95.
Assembly Label Ari Double Breasted Linen Jacket, $150.
The best leather blazers.
Loved by It-Girls like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, leather blazers are arguably the coolest style you can get your mitts on. And with so many brands creating vegan leather options at a much lower price point, consider going faux - no one will know the difference!
Cotton On Curve Vegan Leather Coat Jacket in Chocolate, $89.99.
Zara Faux Leather Blazer, $139.
VRG GRL Fashion Status 90's Jacket in Black, $159.
What's your go-to blazer? Share with us in the comments below!
At Mamamia, we independently choose and write about products our writers genuinely recommend. We have affiliate partnerships so if you use these links to buy something, Mamamia may earn a small commission.
Feature image: The Iconic/Anine Bing/Witchery/Canva/Mamamia.
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