Versatility of the Navy Blazer

A couple of weeks ago we gave you the ultimate guide to decide whether your suit jacket can be worn as a sport coat/blazer. In the guide we suggested you consider investing in a versatile sport coat or blazer. Now, we're going to show you a fantastic option for your first non-suit jacket purchase: the classic, stylish, versatile, easy-to-wear, navy blazer.

To illustrate our point, we put together 5 looks with a navy blazer, on a scale from most conservative to most casual.

 See! Versatility! Now for let's take a look at each outfit, individually, and dig deeper into why it works and what changes wouldn't work.

Look #1 - Most Formal

Why it works: This look has the most formal details for a jacket / odd trouser combo. These include: silk tie, white shirt, plain white pocket square, low contrast between the jacket and trouser, dark brown oxford dress shoes.

Look #2

Look #3

 Why it works: This is middle of the scale. Subtle blue denim shirt, no tie, somber pocket square. Trouser of a fine cotton chino cloth. Minimum contrast between jacket and trouser. The fancier loafer from before, is changed to a suede double monk in a slightly darker chocolate contrast.

What wouldn't work: Again, lot's of wiggle room here. A striped or checked shirt, in a more casual pattern also works here, just don't go too stark in the color contrast. The chino could also be substituted for a darker grey and a navy suede monk would work well, too.

Where it works: Wear this to a nice dinner, on a winter evening.

Look #4

Why it works: A bold striped shirt, replaces the monochromatic denim look and a v-neck cashmere sweater is added for layering. In this case the jacket is used just as much for the extra warmth as the look. The sneakers work because of the higher quality leather and the low contrast brown.

What wouldn't work: You wouldn't want to attempt a tie with this. The tie with the sneakers would be a little too peculiar. 

Where it works: Anywhere. Even with the jacket you still fit in most business casual environments.

Look #5 - The Most Casual

Why it works: This is advanced tailored casual. A striped oxford provides the casual base. The cashmere cardigan in the bold green adds the right amount of playfulness to pair with the well worn denim and plain white trainers. 

What wouldn't work: For this look, it's all about that cardigan. Too somber of a tone would look out of place with the sneakers and broken in denim. 

Where it works: Anywhere that casual appropriate, but you have more style than that.

Convinced yet? A navy blazer can be one of the most important purchases in your closet. A well made, well fitting one, will make you find reasons to wear it. Now you know how.