There's something about a white blazer that makes you stand out. It's difficult not to be attracted to the insouciance and undeniable trust that comes from it, no matter what situation you're in.
But putting this statement piece together is no easy task. Wearing a white blazer necessitates a demeanor that is understated but practiced, as well as a great deal of swagger. It's not for the faint of heart, but nothing worthwhile is. To ensure that this blazer is worn like a pro, we'll start with the basics.
Important tips!
Construction and fit are the most important factors to consider when purchasing a blazer. To begin with, a blazer should not be confused with a suit jacket. It's more laid-back, and the design should reflect that. Blazers are half-canvassed or entirely unlined, while corporate jackets are mostly fully canvased across the chest to provide more structure. This results in a more comfortable silhouette and significantly increased comfort.
Look for tailoring with features like a rolled shoulder seam and patch pockets in a Neapolitan theme. This results in a jacket that travels with the wearer and is well suited to casual outfits such as jeans or shorts. In every blazer, the structure is crucial.
This takes us to the fabric and cloth itself. The term "white" does not have to connote a blinding, bleached appearance. And it certainly shouldn't for the modern gentleman. Instead of blazers in this hue, look for blazers in variations of the shade, such as ivory, cream, or off-white.
A white blazer with trousers
When wearing a white blazer with something, keep in mind that it's the star of the show and makes a strong statement on its own. With this in mind, use tailored slim-cut trousers in classic shades like navy, grey, or taupe when choosing pants to pair. These serve as a strong foundation for every outfit and hold your look firmly in the realm of "timeless style."
Look for tailoring details like tab-waists and thick trouser cuffs to add personality to your trousers. If your jacket is made of a lighter fabric, such as silk or a linen/cotton blend, don't be afraid to pair it with light-colored trousers, particularly during the summer.
For a classic Summer wardrobe, look to style icons like Jay Gatsby for inspiration, and match the look with simple cotton twill shirts in pale blues, pinks, or whites. If you're feeling brave, a darker blue chambray shirt with a white blazer looks fantastic and gives the wearer the illusion of a tan, as seen on David Gandy in the photo above.
Accessorizing a white blazer can be done with a minimalist mindset. Restrain yourself with basic pocket squares in classic colors like blue and white, given how bold this jacket is in the first place. Consider using lighter kerchief fabrics such as linen or even cotton. These add excitement without detracting from the overall look by providing a point of textural contrast against a white blazer jacket.
