At the end of the day, men are pretty easy to understand. We are simple creatures, and you can break what we want down to a few basic rules. One of them is: Is it overcomplicated? We’re not interested. Another is: Can it be simplified? We’re in.
Our wardrobe is the same way. When we wake up in the morning, the items we most often reach for are the ones that are simple, easy to style, comfortable, and can be used in many scenarios. That is why I am looking this fall to a garment that has become my best friend over the last few seasons. Gentlemen, meet the utility blazer.
What is a utility blazer?
So what is a utility blazer? Take a canvas chore coat and throw in the elevated elegance of a blazer, and you have a garment that could go from raking the leaves on a windy day to tossing on a tie and heading to dinner with friends.
Typically, the unstructured casual nature of a chore coat relegates it to the workwear dress code. However, the utility blazer takes that look and replaces the color with a notch (most of the time) lapel, often adding patch pockets. The notch lapel elevates the jacket’s look to take it closer to the blazer. And while the pockets also take it closer to a blazer, the patch pocket selection is the most casual of the blazer pockets. So, now that you know what it is and that you need it, here is how to make it look the best it can look.
How to style a utility blazer
Like anything in the wardrobe, styling it the right way is the key to making it more versatile. If you look at your favorite garments, they are almost always the ones you can wear to almost any occasion. This is how to make that happen with the utility blazer.
For the casual occasions, lean into this garment more as a jacket or an overshirt. Pairing it with a Henley or a sweater is a great way to keep the casual look flowing.
- A loose-fitting fit jean will create that casual silhouette that you’re going for.
- Find yourself anything from a sneaker or a boot to a more casual Chelsea boot, and you have the look that will take you from your outdoor to-do to a trip to the movie theater.
For the more elevated moments, you can swap the casual shirt for something a little more upgraded, like a button-up or a button-down, if you are looking for a classic, elevated casual.
- Go for a more straight-fitting jean or chino for the pants and a dress shoe or elevated chelsea boot.
- If you want to wear a tie, it is best to stay away from the classic silk and go for a more casual look, like a knit or a flannel.
Now you are set for something a little more suited for a first date or coffee meeting.
There you have it, the case for the utility blazer. If you are looking for something to add to your wardrobe, picking up something from Taylor Stitch or Huckberry will get you started.
