Blazer vs. Suit Jacket: Everything You Need To Know

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What are the Main Differences Between a Blazer and a Suit Jacket?

There are a few key main differences between a blazer and a suit jacket, the most important being that a suit jacket always comes with matching trousers made from the same fabric and with the same pattern. A suit jacket is made to fit slimmer than a blazer, and you shouldn’t layer a ton of clothing underneath it, save for a button down shirt. A blazer, on the other hand, is a little less structured than a suit jacket, and you can layer anything from a t-shirt to a cashmere sweater underneath, depending on the weather, the dress code, and what type of event you’re headed to. 

Suit jackets can come in a variety of different fabrics, the most common being wool, linen, seersucker, cashmere, cotton, or a blend of fabrics. They also typically come in solid, neutral colors, like grey, blue, khaki, and black; however, you can easily find suits in classic patterns like houndstooth, pinstripe, or check. Common fabrics blazers are made of include wool, linen, cashmere, and flannel, and while solid colors are always a go-to when it comes to formalwear coats, you can play around with colors and patterns a bit more with blazers. 

Suit jackets should only be worn with their matching trousers; if you try to mix and match your suit pieces, be prepared to look like an utter and complete mess at whichever black tie or formal event you attend. Seriously, don’t even try it unless you want to look sloppy, mismatched, and just overall, out of place.

Blazers, though, are less formal than suit jackets and can be worn with a variety of different bottoms, including chinos, dress pants, high-end denim, and even fitted shorts that hit just above the knee, if you’re going for a nautical or summertime vibe. And while blazers are available in a wide array of colors, prints, and fabrics, it’s a basic rule of thumb that every man should have one navy blazer hanging in their closet, as it’s one of the most classic pieces in men’s fashion.