7 blazers in every gentleman's closet and how to wear them

Once upon a time, blazers were part of boating club wear and the classic single-breasted navy blazer topped off with gold metal buttons was part of a business casual outfit. Those days are gone, today blazers are part of many unconventional outfits.

Nonetheless, there's protocol to rocking a blazer...

Do not wear a blazer to semi-formal or formal gatherings like funerals, galas, weddings. Keep them for smart and casual.

Clue: If you can wear a cardigan or sweater to an event, a blazer is an option for the same event.

Throwing on a blazer can be a game-changer for any outfit, and having options means you can wear similar outfits and the blazer will change it up. Here are seven blazers you must have in your closet.

1. Wool blazer

wool blazer Pulse

The refined material of these blazers gives them a fancy feel and gives an outfit a well put together look and attitude. The well-knit blazer offers protection against cold weather and makes you look warm, cozy. They pair excellently with dark jeans and the classic corduroy pants.

2. Linen blazer

Linen blazer Pulse

These are more formal, and can pass at formal gatherings like work. They come in various striking colours so they are a good choice for beach day. They look polished and clean-cut, which makes them a great addition to any formal background.

3. Cotton blazer

Cotton blazer Pulse

They come close to linen blazers, but are a bit heavier. They are great for professional outfits at seminars, institution visits to schools, universities, hospitals and the like.

4. Tweed blazer

Tweed blazer Pulse

If you have watched an old movie about a professor or inventor, the world wars, you have probably seen a tweed blazer. It is thick, formal and has a vintage look. If you want to pull off an old school outfit or you are the kind to walk the line between the classics and modern, the tweed blazer is perfect. It comes in hushed colours from gray to olive.

5. Velvet blazer

Velvet blazer Pulse

Probably the fanciest of the blazers, their smooth material complements formal outfits quite well by making them stand out. A velvet blazer is great for dinners, weddings, guest of honor, galas, award ceremonies.

6. Single-breasted blazer

Single breasted blazer Pulse

This blazer has a single column of buttons with a small overlap midriff where the button(s) clasp and close the blazer. It is more casual.

7. Double-breasted blazer

Double breasted blazer Pulse

Two sets of buttons with a wide overlap where the buttons are clasped to close off the blazer. It is old-fashioned and suited for a formal look.

Double-breasted blazers have two sets of buttons and a wider overlap of one side over another. These types of blazers are more old-fashioned and formal.

How to style a blazer

Blazer over V-neck tshirt Pulse

Depending on whether you are going for a smart look to support the ensemble and bring it together or making a statement, here are styles to try out.
Add it to your jeans, tucked in T-shirt and sneakers to elevate the outfit above casual.

Blazer and Scarf Pulse

Throw in a scarf for finesse, especially during cold weather or in the evening. Try matching a scarf with different patterns and colours from the blazer.
Make a blazer the principal of your outfit by adding it over your mute colour button-up shirt and tan chino pants.