Blazers Are the Best Part of Fall Dressing

At a recent gathering with fellow fashion editors, I was taken aback upon noticing that the crowd was dressed almost exactly the same. Nearly every one of my (extremely chic) colleagues was wearing blazers in a slightly different way, be it oversized, fitted or draped over their shoulders as capes (the drama!).

As I stood there, observing the room in my own overcoat, I came to the realization that blazers for women — like gold jewellery and platform boots — are the not-so-secret key to sprucing up your styling game.

What to look for in the best blazers for women

Where blazers are concerned, a few key qualities can make all the difference, says Michael Jafine, head of design at Toronto-based brand Ahiri. “First, you should determine if you prefer a tailored or boxy fit. Tailored pieces can complement your body type, whereas boxy, oversized fits can be seen as a statement piece to elevate your look,” he says.

It’s also important to consider materials, especially if you’re looking for a garment that will work in any season. Something like wool will be comfortable and durable, says Jafine. But something like satin, on the other hand, will be breezy and lightweight.

“View blazers as timeless wardrobe staples that last a lifetime, so they’re worth investing in.”

How to style women’s blazers

The nice thing about blazers is that simply putting one on instantly makes you look more polished. Pair it with coordinating trousers and you have a cohesive suit ensemble. Wear it with a feminine maxi-skirt and you add structure to a flowy ’fit.

Perhaps easiest of all, start with a statement blazer — one with an interesting texture, vibrant colour or structured silhouette — and build your outfit out that way.

Regardless of how you wear them, blazers for women are universally stylish. So much so that when a room full of Fashion People show up to an event in basically the same outfit, it’s totally OK. That’s the magic of a blazer.

The best blazers for women we’re wearing now:

Best overall

Reformation Parker oversized blazer

Turn any outfit into an ensemble with this oh-so-comfortable jacket. Using a deadstock woven fabric made from polyester and rayon, Reformation’s sustainably-minded blazer is crafted to last.

With thin stripe details and a sleek one-button front fastening, it has an effortless and elevated effect. Getting dressed just got a whole lot easier.

Top-rated

The Drop Blake blazer

There’s a reason this blazer is a fan-favourite with over 6,000 reviews. Available in 15 styles — including shimmery sequins and luxe velvets — there’s an option for everyone.

Made with a luxe stretch fabric, it’s easy to move in while still feeling structured. Complete with a notched collar and slim silhouette, this blazer elongates the body while providing comfortable all-day wear.

Most size-inclusive

Old Navy Taylor relaxed suit blazer

Spice up your blazer game with this brown plaid piece. Made of a blend of polyester, rayon and spandex, this lightweight overcoat has just the right amount of stretch with enough comfort for a structured jacket.

Along with plus sizes, it offers a range of options for those with petite and taller frames. With a relaxed fit that hits on the thigh, it’s an easy throw-on gem that truly works on everyone.

Best luxury

Anine Bing Kaia blazer

If you’re going to splurge on a statement blazer, let it be this sophisticated offering by Anine Bing.

Made of soft Italian wool, this double-breasted topper features soft shoulder pads and stylish contrasting buttons for an oversized-meets-tailored professional look.

Best soft blazer

Banana Republic ISA Italian Satin Blazer

In search of a blazer that feels like a luxe slip-on satin robe? This is the pick for you. Made of 100% viscose rayon, Banana Republic’s ISA blazer is the ultimate treat-yourself throw-on garment.

Though it has a flowy coziness, it’s also aesthetically elevated, thanks to its deep collar, notch lapel and double-breasted button front.

Easiest to care for

Everlane Tencel oversized blazer

Dress smart and sustainably with this environmentally-minded blazer by Everlane. Made using Tencel Lyocell — a man-made cellulosic fibre — the ash brown design offers the same exceptional softness as conventional cotton while using less energy and water in the production process.

Best of all? It’s made to last and is easy to care for, with an eco-friendly material that is suitable for machine wash.

Best for work

Frank and Oak striped blazer

A reliable work wardrobe just isn’t complete without a trusty blazer. This statement piece by Canadian brand Frank and Oak makes long office days all the more stylish.

This single-breasted design is made from recycled polyester for a functional and fashion-forward statement piece. Complete with a front button closure, it’s comfortable enough for commuting and polished enough for boardroom meetings.

Best for going out

Dynamite fitted single-breasted blazer

Meet the party blazer. Canadian brand Dynamite specializes in elevated classics, and this blazer is a testament to that winning catalogue.

Its crisp white colouring is more intriguing than classic black, with a plunging V neckline and a subtle peplum silhouette. Plus, its structured shoulders emit a vintage coolness, making it the perfect finishing touch to any ensemble.

Best Canadian

Ahiri Pauline blazer

With a semi-fitted silhouette and padded shoulders, this collegiate-core blazer is the epitome of elevated workwear. Designed in Toronto and crafted from a blend of wool, polyester and cotton, it doubles as an outerwear piece during milder winter days. Plus, with its buttery-soft satin lining, it feels like slipping into a cozy loungewear garment.

Best leather

Superdown Marissa blazer

Infuse some streetwear coolness into a professional silhouette with this sleek leather blazer by Superdown. Made of a leather blend, it’s buttery smooth and structured, for an easy addition to any on-the-go look.

Whether you’re heading to dinner with pals or commuting to professional meetings with co-workers, this blazer adds an instant coolness to any look.

Best fitted

Serve the Brand Silvie cutout blazer

With an hourglass silhouette and centred symmetrical cutouts, this expertly tailored blazer by Canadian label Serve taps into the office siren trend du jour. Wear it on its own for a late night out or layer it over a crisp collared top for a daytime look.