The best oversized blazers that are officially staples

The most iconic workwear piece of the ‘80s has managed to find its way back into the fashion vernacular. That’s right, the Working Girl era’s best-oversized blazers are back, shoulder pads and all (at least in some cases). From the runways of major labels like Saint Laurent and Celine come day-to-night powerhouse pieces that can dress up jeans and a tee without leaving you feeling constricted.

Menswear-inspired blazers, which may have a softer shape than the sharp-shouldered ‘80s designs, are another popular take on the oversized blazer for this season. (A few of our favorites hail from Alex Mill and Kallmeyer.) Caroline Maguire, fashion director at Shopbop, sees double-breasted styles as particularly big for the year ahead—especially for throwing on over a chunky knit as a winter blazer outfit. “I love the versatility of this style and that you can wear it as a true outerwear piece,” she says.

No matter which blazer style speaks to you, pulling off an oversized layer takes some finesse; you never want it to look like you accidentally ordered the wrong size. For an intentionally oversized look, “make sure that the shoulder width is right and that the length of the sleeves is proportionate to your arms,” Maguire suggests. While styles are designed to sit loosely on the body, the hem should still hit no lower than mid-thigh, with sleeves that reach your wrists but don’t engulf your hands.

When chosen carefully, the best oversized blazers make a big first impression. Shop our 18 favourites ahead.

Everlane Oversized Blazer, ₹17,020

When on the hunt for affordable yet reliable workwear basics, Everlane is one of the first places I turn. This menswear-inspired blazer comes in classic, colorful, and print options (variety!). The lightweight cotton and tencel fabric is great for warmer months.

Size: 00-18

Material: 60% TENCEL Lyocell, 40% Cotton

What reviewers are saying: "I looked at this blazer for ages. After receiving it, I wondered why I had been on the fence for so long. The fit is perfection. Overall the workmanship is impeccable, and wearing the blazer instantly elevates anything I’m wearing."

The Frankie Shop Bea Oversized Suiting Blazer, ₹28,766 approx

 

Dressed up or down, this double button blazer is sleek and sophisticated. It's a favorite for styling with jeans and a pair of classic ankle boots at the office.

Size: XXS-L

Material: 96% polyester, 4% spandex

Toteme Knitted Wool Blazer Black, ₹50,355 approx

Toteme has mastered the art of minimal cool fashion, and this blazer is a lesson in easy outerwear. I love the cropped but boxy silhouette styled back to a classic white tee.

Size: XXS-XL

Material: 100% Wool

The Row Ule Wool-Twill Blazer, ₹3,44,238

The Row's take on an oversized blazer features exaggerated padded shoulders which create a boxy fit. Still, the body of the blazer is a bit more trim for balance.

Size: XS-XL

Material: 100% wool

Alex Mill Amalie Blazer in Italian Wool Gabardine, ₹43,100

This loose, drapey style has a relaxed vibe that's great for weekend activities like a monthly book club brunch or a first date.

Size: XS-XL

Material: 89% wool, 9% nylon, 2% elastane

J.Crew Leighton Blazer-Jacket, ₹19,451

Boiled wool fabric made in Italy is the secret to this blazer's textured hand feel. Offered in both classic black and a bold Kelly green, it's a style that works for winter and summer alike.

Size: 00-14

Material: 100% wool

What reviewers are saying: "In a sea of crappy blends, this solidly constructed all wool blazer is special. Love the stand up color and the structure it adds to slouchy or soft silhouettes."

Attersee The Unstructured Blazer, ₹66,636 approx

Somewhere between a cozy wrap coat and a traditional blazer, this wool style from Attersee has a soft, relaxed shape. If you find a structured blazer to be too fussy, this robe-like silhouette is the ultimate luxury.

Size: XS-XL

Material: 100% wool

Cos Oversized Crepe Blazer, ₹24,743 approx

Clever details set this sleek off-white blazer apart. Hidden elastic in the sleeves make it easy to stylishly scrunch the arms, while a wide lapel adds a dressy touch.

Size: 2-14

Material: 98% Rayon, 2% Spandex

Interior The Smith Jacket, ₹1,33,700

New York label Interior turns classics on their heads and this blazer is no exception. The deconstructed details draw the eye, but don't look unfinished.

Size: 0-10

Material: 98% Wool, 2% Elastane

Veda Leather Dalia Relaxed Blazer, ₹51,931

For an edgy twist on the classic oversized blazer, this take from Veda x Reformation can double as workwear and outerwear.

Size: XS-L

Material: 100% Leather

Ami Two Buttons Oversized Jacket, ₹66,888 approx

The buttery yellow hue of French label Ami's oversized blazer is the kind of color that can skew neutral or bold. (It's all about how you style it.) If you want a little color, this is a great option.

Size: 32-40

Material: 100% New Wool

WARDROBE.NYC Double Breasted Blazer, ₹1,42,745 approx

This sharp double-breasted blazer is a top choice for nights out, thanks to the the peaked lapels and and sharp shoulders.

Size: XXS-XL

Material: 100% virgin wool

Saint Laurent Pinstriped Double-Breasted Wool Blazer, ₹3,00,913 approx

Embrace the power suit with this '80s-inspired blazer complete with padded shoulders. The oversized silhouette still appears sharp and tailored thanks to the boxy shape.

Size: FR 34-42

Material: 100% wool

Maria McManus Oversized Double Breasted Jacket, ₹92,300

While wool may be the standard material for many of the blazers included in this list, a soft cotton corduroy holds its own as a structured yet relaxed material. It's equally cozy for wearing during the winter, too.

Size: XS-L

Material: Japanese Cotton Corduroy

Celine Long Jacket, ₹3,64,617 approx

If you're going to splurge on a blazer, opt for a timeless style that you'll be able to wear for decades to come (and perhaps even pass down). This wool and cashmere blazer is a forever piece.

Size: FR 34-44

Material: 90% Wool, 10% cashmere

Madewell Rosedale Blazer, ₹10,896 approx

Besides black or tan, plaid is the quintessential blazer choice, and I love the subtle check pattern of this option from Madewell. The double-breasted design has a slightly slouchy fit that's great for styling with trousers or jeans for work.

Size: 14-24

Material: 52% recycled wool, 30% polyester, 17% viscose, 1% elastane

ANINE BING Quinn Blazer, ₹47,200

The loose silhouette of this blazer from Anine Bing makes it ideal for layering during the winter. Try throwing it over a sweatshirt to instantly dress up your look.

Size: XS-XL

Material: 100% wool

This piece originally appeared in Harper's Bazaar UK