Finding the perfect blazer may be tricky and sometimes overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. Here there are a few tips that will help you shop for a well – fitted blazer.
Look for the perfect fit, not for the size
Always look for the fit not for the size when you shop. The fit is number one rule when you purchase any piece of clothing.
Make sure the blazer fits your biggest part of the body. You can make any adjustments from there. You have to be able to button it even if you don’t plan on doing it.
Shoulders
The shoulders can be a little bit narrower and you may also opt for small pads to keep the shape for your frame. Be sure that the pads end where your natural shoulders end.
Lapels
Lapels have the role to keep a direct proportion with your body frame and your face width. If your body frame is large you need your lapels also to be wide to maintain the proportion. If you are petite with a small face and small body frame then opt for narrow lapels.
Sleeves
The perfect sleeves should end where the base of your thumb meets the wrist. This length is a must if you wear the blazer on formal events or business functions.
For a casual more relaxed look you can roll the blazer’s sleeves up, showing off the shirt cuffs.
Torso
A well-fitted blazer should give you enough room for any movements. The best way to find out if the blazer is the right size is to button it up and to make the movement like you hug somebody. If you feel that the torso will rip apart at your back than go for a size up.
Also, button up your blazer and sit down. If there are gaps between buttons or they look like popping out than opt for a bigger size.
Length
The length of the blazer is optional. Although, for business attire, the length of the blazer should cover your derriere ( bottom).
Always keep in mind that a well-fitted blazer has to give you the illusion of a long and lean body shape and create a flattering silhouette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a blazer by size or by fit?
Always shop for the fit, not the number on the label, because fit is the first rule when purchasing any piece of clothing. Make sure the blazer fits the largest part of your body, since a tailor can adjust everything else from there, and you should be able to button it even if you never plan to.
How long should blazer sleeves be?
The perfect sleeve ends where the base of your thumb meets the wrist, and this length is a must when you wear the blazer for formal events or business functions. For a more relaxed, casual look, you can roll the sleeves up to show off your shirt cuffs.
How do I know if a blazer is too tight?
Button it up and mimic the movement of hugging someone; if you feel the back straining as though it might rip, go a size up. Also sit down while buttoned: if gaps appear between the buttons or they look ready to pop, the blazer is too small.
What width of lapels should I choose for my body frame?
Lapels should stay in direct proportion with your body frame and the width of your face. A larger frame calls for wider lapels to maintain that proportion, while a petite woman with a small face and frame looks best in narrow lapels.
How long should a blazer be for business attire?
Length is largely a matter of preference, but for business attire the blazer should cover your bottom. Above all, a well-fitted blazer should create the illusion of a long, lean body and a flattering silhouette.