Blazer vs. Suit Jacket: Everything You Need To Know
When it comes to semi-formal and formal wear, there are a few styles of coats to choose from: the sport coat, the blazer, and the suit jacket. Believe it or not, there are many differences between these formal jackets – including fabrics, colors, prints, cuts, and of course, formality.
While sport coats are the most informal of the three (and you can read more about them here) we’re breaking down everything you need to know about blazers and suit coats so when the time comes, you’re armed and ready with all the info you need about the differences between the two, where to wear them, how to wear them, and more.
What Is a Blazer?
A blazer is a jacket that can be dressed up or down, depending on the event you’re going to and the dress code that’s in place. Blazers usually come in solid colors and have contrasting metal buttons and detailing throughout the jacket; however, it’s not uncommon to find blazers that are patterned or are made of a unique material, like velvet, given today’s current fashion trends.
Blazers also typically come in two styles: 2-3 button single-breasted jackets or 6 button double-breasted jackets. Blazers are also more formal than a sport coat, but less formal than a suit jacket, which we’ll get into below.
What Is a Suit Jacket?
A suit jacket is a jacket that has a matching pair of trousers and is made from the same fabric as those trousers, and also features the same pattern (if your suit has one). In fact, that’s exactly what makes a suit jacket a suit jacket, and sets it apart from a sport coat or a blazer.
It’s definitely the simplest of the three common types of jackets and is usually worn only to formal events, including weddings (as a guest), business conferences, the office (if your workplace has an ultra-formal and strict dress code, or you work in fields like finance or law), job interviews, etc. Suit jackets are also the most slim-fitting of the bunch and don’t have ornate details or embellishments.
