A blazer is a type of jacket that is generally distinguished from a sport coat by its more formal construction and tailoring from solid color fabrics.
Blazers are often considered a wardrobe staple due to their versatility and timeless appeal. They are traditionally navy blue, falling between the almost black of midnight blue and a simple dark blue. However, nowadays blazers come in a variety of colors and styles, making them a perfect addition to any outfit, whether dressed up or down.
History of Blazers:
Blazers have their origins in 19th-century England. Initially, they were two very different jackets. One was worn by members of the British Royal Navy, who first sported a navy-blue double-breasted jacket as its color matched the uniform. The other was created in the late 1800s by Lady Margaret Boat Club at St. John's College in Cambridge, England, where members of the club wore distinctive blazing red reefer jackets.
- English Naval Blazer: The original navy-blue uniform jacket worn by the Royal Navy, which became known as the "English Naval Blazer". It featured metal buttons bearing the symbol of the wearer's ship or rank.
- Bright Red Blazer: Worn by Lady Margaret Boat Club members, a red blazer with metal buttons fastened up the front becoming known later simply as a "Blazer", in reference to the bright flash ("blaze") of the brass buttons as they caught the sunlight.
Over time, the blazer became a popular fashion piece for both men and women. Its distinctive look made it a staple in almost every occasion, and it evolved into different styles and colors, while the original navy blue remained a classic.
The Differences between Blazers, Sport Coats, and Suit Coats
To distinguish a blazer from other similar types of outerwear, consider the following:
- Fabric: Blazers typically feature a solid color and have more structured tailoring than sport coats, which are made from textured fabrics or patterns.
- Structure and fit: Blazers tend to be more structured than sport coats. The shoulders are firmer providing a more streamlined fit. This helps to create a more formal appearance than sport coats that are generally cut longer to sit on the hip with a rounded shape.
- Buttons: Metal buttons are standard on traditional blazers, although decorative ones could also be found. Sport coats usually have leather buttons or dark horn.
- Usage: Blazers typically have a marine blue color and are considered a semi-formal style. Sport coats were traditionally intended for specific leisure activities. Today, the lines between the three are easily crossable.
Occasional Use of Your Blazers:
While blazers can be used during both formal and informal occasions, the color, cut, and accessories you pick all affect the overall visual appearance. Lighter colors work wonders in casual settings, while the signature navy blue lends an air of formality for semi-formal events or work functions.
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