A blazer is a sports jacket for informal meetings and creating stylish everyday looks. It can be single-breasted or double-breasted, with patch pockets and several rows of buttons. A distinctive feature is the absence of a valve. In addition, a blazer is an independent item that may not be complemented by trousers.
According to one version, the world first saw a blazer in 1825. Then in England, a single-breasted jacket made of high-quality red flannel (hence the name “blaze”) was presented as part of the uniform of members of the rowing club, which at that time was part of one of the Cambridge colleges and was known in narrow circles. When creating the first blazers, they took a naval jacket with its characteristic accents as a model.
A few years later, such a jacket began to be worn in English girls' schools. It was a fitted blazer made of woolen fabric, on which the coat of arms of the educational institution was necessarily embroidered.
There is another equally interesting version of the origin of this wardrobe item.Thus, it is believed that in 1837, the captain of the warship Blazer, in preparation for the visit of the Queen of England, ordered double-breasted jackets for his crew members. They were dark blue in color and the focus was on detail. For example, gilded buttons and vertical blue and white stripes were mandatory. The Queen appreciated the sailors' dress uniform and ordered similar jackets to be made for the crews of other ships of the English fleet.
The next round in the development of blazer fashion occurred in the 20s of the twentieth century. The incomparable Coco Chanel added masculine charm to a woman's wardrobe. To this day, stylists respect the look she created for women: wide trousers combined with a blazer. Both items of the image were black and lacked buttons and any decorative elements. Chanel recommended “dilute” a slightly gloomy suit with jewelry.
In the 60s of the last century, the image of an English dude with a single-breasted blazer at the base came into fashion. Famous music groups of that time, such as The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, played a big role in its popularity.
In the 80s, the cut of this jacket changed. Now the focus was on the shoulders, and the blazer itself became the typical office wear for both men and women.
In the modern world, this wardrobe item has become more versatile. It is great for creating business and casual looks, and is actively used as the main part of the uniform (for example, for employees of airlines, hotels, luxury fashion stores).
A classic combination is a dark blue blazer with lighter trousers, such as gray or white. This combination is suitable for both men and women.Accessories are important in this look: formal shoes and a standard bag without unnecessary details. A tie for men and discreet jewelry for women are acceptable.
In a more informal version, the blazer is combined with jeans, a sweater or even a vest. You can add bold accessories to this ensemble, such as sneakers, a translucent top (for women) or a bright shirt (for men).
There are many varieties of blazer. Today, the “boyfriend” model with elongated wide sleeves that are carelessly rolled up is especially relevant. A cropped blazer is popular among women. Paired with a maxi skirt, it makes the look mysterious. In addition, the “tailcoat” model with a characteristic trim on the back is at the height of fashion.