One thing that’s lacking in many of my clients’ wardrobes is a selection of third pieces - jackets, blazers, vests, coats and the like, that not only provide warmth on chilly fall days, but also finish off an outfit like nothing else can.
Nothing makes you feel pulled together like a third piece, but your dilemma in early fall may be that it’s too cool to not wear one, but it’s not cool enough to wear a ‘real coat’ or heavy jacket yet. So, what’s the third piece that’s probably missing from your fall wardrobe? A great plaid blazer!
A casual blazer (and by casual, I mean anything that doesn’t look like half a suit) is that quintessential layer that you can throw over a plethora of styles, and your outfit suddenly feels polished and complete. And a plaid one is a masterful choice, since it adds a strong hit of print and pattern when you’re wearing a solid top and bottom. And the best thing? Plaid blazers are totally on trend this season, which means that you’ll be able to find different colors, cuts and styles at prices that are sure to align with your budget.
I love a black and white based plaid blazer as an option that seamlessly integrates into many clients’ closets. After all, you have black pants, right? You have jeans, right? You have solid tops, right? Then you have all the makings for some fun plaid blazer looks! Check out how I styled this super cute (and under $150!) plaid blazer so you can wear it at the office, on date night and for a cool fall weekend.
AT THE OFFICE
When you just can’t think of what to wear to work, start with a solid top and bottom. I love this burgundy silk blouse as an easy professional layer, and these grey textured wide leg cropped pants are a modern staple. And when you add a plaid blazer, you’ve injected a major dose of style that brings together all the other pieces - your everyday black bag, a silver pendant, and black heels that are super wearable, but far from basic.
DATE NIGHT
This fall, I am all about a floaty dress and knee high boots - I know, it channels a little Stevie Nicks, but is that a bad thing? The heeled boots provide some height (which balances the volume of the dress) and the plaid blazer is a masculine and structured juxtaposition to the overt femininity and movement of the dress. The overall effect is a supremely fashionable yet completely covered date night look, that exudes sophistication and sexiness.
WEEKEND WANDERING
Whether your weekend plans include a fall farmers’ market, a casual girls’ night out or a family festival with the kids, layers are key as temperatures dip. Start with a pair of colored cords (the fall alternative to your everyday jeans), a graphic sweater, and boots with attitude. Then throw on your plaid blazer in place of a boring jacket - and to be super on trend, add a plaid scarf for this season’s ‘plaid on plaid’ look. All these pieces are super versatile, but when worn together, they’re so much more interesting than a simple blue jeans and solid neutral sweater look.
Are you inspired to add a plaid blazer to your fall wardrobe? If you’re looking for more fall style tips, fashion advice and want to see a little bit of what I do, follow me on Instagram!
Plaid blazer by 1 State. All jewelry by Lagos. All bags by Rebecca Minkoff. All shoes by Sam Edelman. Blouse and wide leg crop pants by Rebecca Taylor. Dress by Karen Millen. Graphic sweater, scarf and cords by Banana Republic.