The humble blazer has been a wardrobe staple for women since the mid-19th century. But its prominence was driven by none other than some of fashion’s most stylish ladies throughout history. From the early days of Coco Chanel and Jackie Kennedy to modern icons like Victoria Beckham, this versatile garment keeps getting increasingly popular.
Let’s take a closer look at the sartorial history of the blazer and see just what it takes to make this classic piece of clothing so enduringly fashionable.
A Brief History of the Blazer
The blazer first appeared in 1825, becoming part of the official uniform for male members of the Lady Margaret Boat Club at St. John’s College in Cambridge, England. The bright red jacket was an instant hit and was quickly referred to as a blazer. The term “blazer” quickly entered the English language and has been used ever since.
By 1930, Coco Chanel and other fashion icons of the time popularised tailored blazers. These early designs saw women’s blazers come in various colors, fabrics, and cuts that you could easily accessorize with jewelry, gloves, and hats.
In the (WW2) war years, the blazer played a significant part in the uniform of the time. Every soldier, airman, and land girl wore a type of blazer. After the war, women’s blazers continued to experience a surge in popularity as the clothing of choice for workwear.
The shortage of fabric and the continuation of rationing meant blazers were made from all sorts of unusual materials, including velvet curtains, old denim, and corduroy; in fact, any material that you could get hold of was made into clothing for the entire family.
The Re-emergence of the Blazer in the 1960s
In the 1960s, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis brought back blazers as a fashion statement. She was often photographed wearing a single-breasted navy blazer with white pants and a string of pearls. She quickly became the poster child for this fashionable trend, and the look was highly popularised by young women everywhere.
Jackie Kennedy’s influence on blazers didn’t stop there; she set the standard for modern blazers with her simple, tailored designs and classic patterns. For example, she was often seen wearing blazers with short, cropped sleeves and minimal embellishment, a trend that continues today.
The Modern Blazer
In the decades since Jackie Kennedy influenced blazers, designers have become increasingly creative with their designs. Today’s blazers are available in many styles, fabrics, and colors, from smart office wear to casual weekend wear.
Designers like Victoria Beckham and Vivianne Westwood have made blazers fashionable again with their eye-catching designs and sophisticated lines. Blazers are now seen as a must-have item in any fashionista’s wardrobe.
The modern blazer is versatile enough to be worn with everything from jeans and sneakers to a little black dress and heels. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or going out on the town, there’s no doubt that a blazer is always a great choice.