Dress for Success: Best Blazers and Cardigans for Work

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5 years ago

You’ve chosen your perfect blouse and your pants, but your outfit isn’t yet complete. You don’t feel yet like you’ve dressed for success until you have chosen the perfect blazers for work!

Wait, I need to wear a blazer?

Well, in short, yes. Remember a few weeks ago we looked out how Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Dress for Success? We realized that most of the women wore a blazer and, if not, a cardigan. Even the Fortune’s 40 Under 40 wore blazers pretty consistently. So, I do suggest wearing a top layer such as a blazer or cardigan to work.

Do I need to wear one every day?

I guess it depends on what impression you want to make. If you consistently want to project a sense of polish and professionalism, then…yes, you should wear a blazer (or a cardigan) every day.

Do you wear a blazer or cardigan every day?

No, I do not. On days when I have a less hectic schedule, more casual meetings, or I want to convey a sense of openness and rapport with my direct reports, I do tend to dress less formal. I will wear a sweater or a blouse without a top layer (if it’s warm enough in the office!!). I do, however, always wear a blazer for important meetings or big presentations.

OK, so now I’m convinced I need to wear a blazer, but how to I choose blazers for work?!

My personal feeling on these items is that you want them basic, basic, basic. Basic colors, nothing wild and no wild prints. Think solid black, navy, tan, or grey. I think there are exceptions, of course. So, for example, you wore a black top and black pants, I think you can wear a cardigan with a vivid pattern (leopard, maybe?). I think, though, that would be the exception.

If you peruse the posts on Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Dress for Success and Fortune’s 40 Under 40, you will notice that most of the blazers are black, and the cardigans are simple. I think the idea here is that this piece should be complimentary to a more vivid blouse; perhaps a “loud” blazer is too distracting. A blouse that is a bit wilder can be muted with a top layer, such as a blazer. But if the top layer is busy, it could be distracting or gathering attention you don’t want to your attire.

Here are some Blazers and Cardigans that get my attention:

(Note: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.)

I heart Theory! You can really never go wrong. But, Theory is pricey and may not be realistic for everyone. But, let’s look at some more economical options…

While I probably wouldn’t wear that T-shirt to work, I do love the look of a casual top and a blazer!

Love the neck, and the detailing on the sleeves!!

kate spade new yorkScalloped Trim Cardigan

If you simply cannot tolerate the “basic” rule, I think having touches such as scalloping can be nice.

AQUA Cashmere Crewneck Cashmere Cardigan

A bright color but certainly qualifies as basic.

OK, for the rare times when you just cannot do basic, here’s a nice option for a vivid pattern:

That’s all I have for now on Blazers for work, and some cardigans too! The only other suggestion I will make is on tailoring your blazers. If you really want to look amazing, consider getting your blazers tailored so they fit perfectly. If you purchase at Nordstrom, I believe they will tailor for free!!

I’d love to hear your thoughts below!

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