Let’s All Just Live in Oversized Blazers. Check out Some of our Favorites!

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Normal Blazers vs Oversized Blazers

Let’s start with the basics defined. Firstly, blazers. A blazer is a more casual suit jacket. It has lapels, statement buttons and is made of a lighter material than you’d expect in a suit jacket. Like a suit jacket, a blazer is usually fitted and it lends an air of sophistication. Solid color blazers made of a substantial fabric are especially ideal for professional environments.

To me, a blazer is defined by its strong shoulders, lapels, buttons and fit. The classic monochrome power suit comes to mind where accentuated lapels and metallic buttons are a must!

The difference between a regular blazer and an oversized blazer is somewhat obvious. An oversized blazer is simply a larger version of a regular blazer.

”Oversized” can mean an exaggerated length, an exaggerated shoulder, exaggerated sleeves – anything larger than you’d expect. With most oversized blazers, all of those elements are enlarged.

Basically, if you’re unsure whether a blazer is oversized, just try it on or see it on someone similar to you in size. If the blazer’s sleeves, shoulders or length are larger than expected, I consider it an oversized blazer.

What Makes Oversized Blazers Great

Firstly, oversized blazers have been around for as long as regular ones. Their exponential rise in popularity however can be attributed in large part to 80’s fashion. The 80’s had an explosion of power suits; a new wave of professional attire for women and men.

The style of the decade was characterized by bright colors, exaggerated silhouettes and pushing design expectations. That philosophy was carried onto the newly expanding category of women’s workwear. Blazers got bigger shoulder pads, bigger sleeves and longer lengths while keeping classic elements like lapels and statement buttons.

Magazine page displaying models in 80s blazers — Image courtesy of pinterest.com

With the oversized blazer, you no longer had to choose between looking professional and looking stylish. You could pull off both! And the style wasn’t limited to the office. The boldness of an oversized blazer was welcome in every environment for all genders.

An oversized blazer is great because it belongs everywhere. It’s a quick way to make you look more formal and it’s big enough to make every outfit look like a fashion statement. Who doesn’t want to give their silhouette a more defined shape in seconds? It’s the perfect accessory!

Now, I love blazers of all kinds. But, oversized blazers speak to me. I love how they take risks while still abiding by fashion rules enough to make sense. They represent the perfect remix on a fashion staple.