A jacket is a must-have attribute of a modern wardrobe. Long gone are the days when it was used only in business style. Today it is worn not only as part of a classic suit, but also separately with jeans, chinos and even shorts.
However, there are a number of rules on how to wear a jacket and combine it with other things:
- The most important thing is that it must be chosen exactly in size. A correctly chosen jacket does not hug the figure, but does not hang like a bag, the shoulder seam is exactly in the middle, and the sleeve covers the bone. Ideally, when the button is fastened at the waistline, it should fit and highlight the figure.
- A jacket cannot be worn separately from a classic suit.
- The level of “formal - informal” for all details of the image should be the same. That is, the choice of a classic jacket involves a classic shirt and trousers with arrows, and a sports one can already be combined with jeans and a T-shirt.
- First of all, a jacket is selected, a shirt and shoes are already selected to go with it. Shoes in a classic style are always boots, always in the same color scheme. Brown boots are not worn with a black jacket and vice versa. In an informal style, everything is determined by an individual sense of taste. The only rule is that Oxfords are prohibited.
Men's jacket and its types
There are many types, each of which has its own nuances in use.
The most popular jackets:
- Classic. It is characterized by mortise pockets, finer wool, classic colors and the presence of vents.
- Blazer. Cropped with a loose fit. Blazers were originally a mandatory item of clothing for club members, so they were characterized by stripes, emblems or, at a minimum, visible metal buttons. The color is always the same color, the slots are located on the sides. This is a summer wardrobe item; it cannot be combined with thick warm trousers, unlike classic ones.
- Tailcoat. The most formal option, not for everyday wear. Can only be combined with a white or black bow tie.
- The tuxedo. It differs in cut and way of wearing. A tuxedo is characterized by a rounded chest (the jacket has a wedge-shaped neckline) and silk or satin lapels. Worn only with a white shirt with a stand-up collar and trousers with stripes. A butterfly or a cummerbund (wide belt) is used as accessories. Not suitable for everyday wear.
- French. It is characterized by denser fabric, a stand-up collar and patch pockets.
There are also more in-depth classifications based on the cut and shape of the lapels. Jackets also differ in the location and number of buttons.
Single breasted
The most common type. Single-breasted buttons are located on one side. Their number varies from 1 to 4.
There are etiquette rules that govern how to properly button single-breasted jackets:
- The bottom button is always undone. There are two exceptions to this rule: a model with two buttons and lapels that are too long, or a short jacket if you are tall. Only in these cases is it permissible to fasten the bottom button. The condition of the remaining buttons is determined by the situation.
- An official or business event requires a buttoned item (except for the bottom button, of course). It must also be fastened when entering the premises.
- At the table they unbutton it. When leaving the table, the procedure is as follows: first they fasten the buttons and only then get up from their place.
- Jackets with one button must always be buttoned.
A single-breasted jacket goes well with almost any wardrobe item. It is important to take into account its style, fabric and color.
IMPORTANT! There should be only one bright detail in the image.
When choosing mismatched trousers for a jacket, it is important to follow the rule of contrast (they should not match in color). The look can be complemented with various accessories: a scarf, a scarf, a tie (for those who like an informal style, there are options made of wool with a pattern).
Double breasted
Double breasted jacket - the favorite clothing of aristocrats and American mafiosi of the 30s. He requires a serious attitude. Since two rows of buttons are already a fairly noticeable detail in the image, double-breasted does not accept additional bright accessories.
ATTENTION! This option is not suitable for overweight men, since the double row of buttons draws attention to the stomach, visually enlarging it.
Can be with 2,3 and 4 buttons. Traditionally, double-breasted jackets were always buttoned, however, recently the lower right button has been allowed to be undone.
Made from camelot (thick fabric made from the wool of the Angora goat), it is used as outerwear.
Shoes must be made of leather or suede.
How to Wear a Blazer With Jeans
For the first time such a bold set was presented on the catwalk by Giorgio Armani, his idea was instantly picked up by all the fashionistas of the world. This stylish combination creates an informal and modern look.
In order for the image to be truly successful, it is important to follow the advice of stylists:
- Clothing must be appropriate for the setting. Ripped jeans, with rhinestones or a bright print, will be out of place at a business meeting or in the office.
- Double-breasted and classic models do not go well with jeans.
- Use denim blazers with caution.
For men and women there are a number of differences in the rules for combining such things.
Pair with jeans: men
The style and image created are very important. For a business style, a combination of a dark blazer and dark classic jeans is suitable. A light, plain shirt is preferable.
For everyday wear, you can use jeans in lighter shades. In cool weather, it is permissible to replace the shirt with a jumper or turtleneck.
For an informal event, you can wear brighter items of clothing: a colored shirt, long sleeves, a printed T-shirt, ripped jeans. Complete everything with high-quality and stylish accessories.
Pair with jeans: women
Some stylists allow a combination of a classic jacket and jeans in a woman's look. Any item of clothing is acceptable as a top for girls (T-shirt, blouse, top, jumper). Today, combinations with a linen-style top, vest or sweatshirt are popular. In the latter version, the hood must be visible, and only classic jeans are allowed, without additional accents.
If you follow these simple rules, the jacket will become a truly indispensable wardrobe item for any occasion in life, and not just part of the office dress code.