Elegance and fall fabrics make for a cold-weather style staple
When you gather with friends or visit your favorite cigar bar to start the evening, the occasion already feels a touch momentous and important, right? After all, time is money, and how you choose to spend it (and the company you keep, and the clothing you wear) all speak to that approach. Some situations might prove more laidback, but you’ll no doubt find yourself needing to step out in polished, refined style – that goes for a cigar bar visit as well as the office, and the best men’s blazers can serve you well in both regards.
Less formal than a matching suit and meant to be paired with everything from cotton chinos to corduroy trousers, wool dress pants and even dressy dark blue jeans, the best men’s blazers are a certified wardrobe workhorse. Find one in a rich seasonal fabric like wool or even corduroy, and your next dressy (but not too dressy) look is nearly complete.
Everlane Italian Wool Jacket – $248
You could make the case that, like the blue jean, the white tie or a red-and-black plaid flannel shirt, the navy blazer is an essential item every man looks great wearing. Especially in rich, versatile navy, the jacket is like a suit of armor that can be dressed up with a starched white dress shirt, dressed down atop a merino T-shirt, or meeting in the middle over a blue chambray shirt. This Everlane jacket in soft wool can do it all, and then some.
Relwen Flyweight Flex Blazer – $298
Some blazers these days are surprisingly more functional than one might expect. For day-to-night style – a commute, a rooftop happy hour, an evening speakeasy visit – your blazer of choice should be able to do a bit of everything. Relwen designed this blazer with military inspiration in mind, down to the Army Green color, the stretch cotton fabric and the four-button style, complete with a throat latch. It’s a dash more rugged than other blazers on this list, but your wardrobe will be all the more versatile for it.
Bonobos Jetsetter Italian Wool Blazer – $475
Like the construction of your cigar of choice, the ingredients matter, particularly in the construction of your blazer. And the right mood matters, as well. In terms of fabrication, Bonobos uses fine Italian wool to craft this soft-shouldered blazer. And when it comes to mood, a rich plum plaid color is a fine choice for fall and winter engagements, particularly ones that call for a dash of tasteful seasonal style. When worn with light grey herringbone wool trousers, this blazer is an undeniable winner.
Wallace & Barnes Blazer in English Melton Wool – $498
You’re very likely familiar with the navy blazer, but this option from J. Crew’s slightly more rugged, classic Wallace & Barnes line has a few stylistic swerves. For one, it does away with the contrasting gold-hued buttons found on some blazers. It also uses rich, hardy melton wool, and features casual patch pockets. For pairing with charcoal wool trousers and a white Oxford shirt, there’s not a better pick.
Todd Snyder Italian Madison Sportcoat – $798
Over the years, you’ve very likely seen Todd Snyder’s menswear work – he’s moved from Ralph Lauren and J. Crew to his own namesake brand, one that respects heritage classics and puts a fresh spin on them. Take the Madison Sportcoat – it boasts a timeless design and a tailored fit with a natural shoulder. The real icing on the cake is the rich Chestnut Herringbone fabric, which is about as perfect for fall as a dram of whisky and a fine cigar.
About the author: Beau Hayhoe is a men's style and lifestyle writer based in Brooklyn, New York. He covers everything from menswear to watches, spirits and music. His work has appeared online at Esquire, Maxim, AskMen, Men's Journal, Gear Patrol, InsideHook and more. He's a devoted fan of Red Wing boots, Filson flannel shirts, Buck Mason jeans and a great dram of The Macallan.
