What to Wear Under a Blazer?
Blazers are one of the most versatile and stylish pieces in a man’s wardrobe.
They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and can take you from business meetings to casual nights out.
But when it comes to what to wear under a blazer, the options can be overwhelming.
You don’t just throw on any shirt or sweater and call it a day.
1. Classic Dress Shirt: The Timeless Choice
When it comes to a blazer, the classic dress shirt is a go-to choice for a polished and refined look.
Whether you’re dressing for a business meeting, a wedding, or a formal dinner, pairing your blazer with a crisp, button-up shirt will always be a safe bet. Here’s why:
Fabric Matters
For a formal or semi-formal look, stick with fabrics like cotton, linen, or a cotton-blend.
These materials breathe well and help you stay comfortable throughout the day.
For colder months, opt for heavier fabrics like flannel or twill.
Color and Pattern
In terms of color, white is the most timeless choice, but light blue, pale pink, or subtle patterns like stripes or checks can add a bit of personality without sacrificing sophistication.
Avoid overly bold patterns or neon colors, as they can detract from the sharpness of the blazer.
Fit and Tailoring
A fitted shirt is key when wearing it under a blazer. It should hug your torso but leave enough room for movement.
If the shirt is too loose or too tight, it can create bulk or discomfort under the blazer. Make sure the sleeves peek just past the cuff of the blazer.
2. Casual Button-Down Shirt: For Smart-Casual Looks
If you're going for a more relaxed, smart-casual style, a button-down shirt is a great choice. It’s less formal than a dress shirt but still smart enough to wear under a blazer.
Casual button-downs come in a variety of fabrics like Oxford cloth, chambray, and denim, all of which pair well with a blazer for a more laid-back vibe.
Style and Fit
Go for shirts with a looser, more relaxed fit to maintain comfort.
A slightly wrinkled shirt can also lend a more casual, lived-in vibe, which works well for more informal occasions like a brunch or a dinner date.
Patterns and Colors
For a more casual flair, try shirts with subtle patterns like gingham or checkered prints.
Neutral shades, such as navy, grey, and soft greens, are excellent choices, but you can also experiment with bolder colors if you’re confident in your style.
3. Turtleneck: Sophisticated and Stylish
A turtleneck sweater under a blazer can make a statement, giving you a polished yet slightly more fashion-forward appearance.
This option is perfect for colder weather and is an excellent way to incorporate texture into your outfit. Here’s how to make it work:
Fabric
For a sleek and smooth look, choose fine-knit wool, cashmere, or merino wool. These fabrics are soft against the skin and have a luxurious finish that pairs well with a blazer.
Color
Dark colors like black, charcoal grey, or navy are safe options for pairing with most blazers.
If you want to introduce a pop of color, go for deep jewel tones like forest green or burgundy.
Fit and Cut
The turtleneck should be form-fitting but not tight.
It needs to sit comfortably under your blazer without creating lumps or discomfort.
Avoid any bulky knit styles if you're aiming for a streamlined look.
4. Crew Neck Sweater: Casual Yet Elegant
A crew neck sweater can be a fantastic choice if you want to wear something comfortable yet still presentable.
This option strikes a good balance between casual and smart and works well for colder months or more relaxed office environments.
Fabric
Opt for materials like wool, merino wool, or cotton blends. These fabrics are lightweight yet provide warmth without causing bulk.
A thicker knit can add texture to the outfit, but ensure it doesn’t overwhelm the blazer.
Color
Stick to neutral colors like grey, navy, or beige for versatility. A pop of color like burgundy or forest green can add some personality if that’s what you’re after.
Fit
The fit of the crew neck sweater should be close enough to the body to keep the silhouette sharp, but not so tight that it rides up under the blazer.
The length should allow it to tuck easily into trousers or jeans without bunching up.
5. Polo Shirt: Casual Yet Refined
The polo shirt is another excellent choice for a more relaxed yet still refined look.
A high-quality polo shirt, paired with a blazer, can create a smart-casual aesthetic that works well for everything from after-work drinks to an afternoon at the golf course.
Fabric and Style
Choose polos made from materials like pique cotton, merino wool, or a cotton blend. These fabrics hold their shape and look polished.
Make sure the collar is stiff enough to keep its shape under the blazer without flopping over.
Color and Patterns
Stick with classic colors like navy, white, or grey. You can also experiment with stripes or subtle patterns, but avoid loud logos or overly bold colors, which can detract from the overall sophistication of the look.
6. Henley Shirt: A Unique, Relaxed Option
If you’re aiming for a more casual yet still sharp look, a henley shirt is a fantastic option.
With its button-down collar and relaxed fit, a henley shirt offers a subtle sense of ruggedness, which pairs nicely with a more tailored blazer.
Fabric
Like the turtleneck, a henley shirt works well in materials like cotton or wool. For a more elevated look, consider a merino wool henley that’s slim-fitting and soft.
Color
For a classic and versatile look, stick with neutral shades like grey, navy, or olive. If you want to add a little more character, try deep burgundy or forest green for an understated pop of color.
Fit
The henley shirt should be slim-fitting but comfortable. You don’t want it to be too tight, but it should sit close enough to the body to maintain a clean look under the blazer.
7. Casual Graphic Tee: For a Bold Statement
For those wanting to make a bold, edgy statement, pairing a graphic tee with a blazer can be a stylish and unexpected combination.
It’s perfect for casual outings, concerts, or nights out when you want to show off a bit of your personality.
Fabric and Style
Choose a slim-fit graphic tee in soft cotton that feels comfortable and breathable. The graphic should be subtle enough to complement the blazer, not compete with it.
Color
Keep the color of the tee neutral – black, white, or grey are ideal choices. You can go for a more vibrant color if the graphic is minimalist, but avoid anything too loud that might clash with the blazer.
Fit
Ensure that the tee fits snugly but comfortably. Too loose, and it will create unwanted bulk under the blazer; too tight, and it will feel uncomfortable.
Conclusion
When selecting what to wear under a blazer, the key is to choose a piece that complements your blazer’s style and the occasion.
With the right layers, you’ll be able to elevate your blazer-wearing experience, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings.
So, experiment with different options, and find the style that works best for you.
