As I was browsing the endless racks of H&M the other weekend, my goal was to find a comfortable, casual blazer. When I got to the blazer section, I was pleasantly surprised to see blazers in almost every fall hue and style. I started to try on all of the different styles and sizes and discovered each one framed my body quite differently. I then realized I was unsure as to how a blazer should actually fit me. After doing a little google-ing I found what I needed and comprised a guide. So, here is the blazer fitting guide I came up with:
There’s tons of different styles of blazers, but it’s neccesary to narrow down the style that fits you best by finding the right one for your body shape.
1. Hourglass: Any blazer can probably work for you, but look for a blazer with a nipped or smaller waist to accentuate your smaller midriff. Boyfriend blazers are also a suitable option.
Image taken from hm.com/us
2. Pear: Look for a short or cropped blazer. It will tone down your luscious curves a bit. If you buy one that hits at hip length it will only highlight your hips and butt, which can be a good thing, but not if that’s what your self conscious about. Or look for a longer boyfriend blazer that extends a few inches below your hips.
Image taken from us.dorothyperkins.com
3. Apple: Try to find a darker color blazer with more structured and strong shoulders to create a smaller upper body. Also look for a blazer that’s got a nipped or smaller waist for the slimming effect.
Image taken from bananarepublic.gap.com
4. Petite: Rock the shoulder pads. Find a blazer that has strong and solid shoulder structure to add some volume to your body. Avoid overdoing it though, no one wants to look like a football player.
Image taken from romwe.com
5. Tall or Short: The taller you are, the longer in length your blazer can be. If you’re short, opt for a shorter length.
It’s all about the balance and making sure your upper half and lower half are proportional to each other. Make sure that the fit is snug through the shoulders and the silhouette drapes your body well. If your blazer fits perfectly, you’ll be able to raise your arms with it buttoned and be able to move comfortably. Make sure the sleeves hit just at the wrist (this doesn’t matter as much if you roll up the sleeves). After you find the style that suites your shape, consider the details.
The bigger the bust you have, the less buttons your blazer should have. Buttons and double breast blazers add more visual weight to that area, which can make you look a little top heavy compared to the rest of your body. Regular single-breasted blazers left unbuttoned create a long, lean line, which is super slimming. On the contrary if your bust is small, then buttons or a double-breast closure are your best option. This will give the illusion of a slightly fuller chest. The higher the buttons, the more structure and attention is added to your shoulders and chest. So lower buttons on tall and bustier ladies works well.
A perfect fitting blazer is an essential staple to every wardrobe, so suit yourself well and keep in mind these guidelines the next time you’re your looking for that go-to blazer.