Best blazers for women over 50 in 2024 | members only

Blazers — not diamonds — are a woman’s best friend. They’re power pieces that boost any outfit and your body confidence. How do I know? As a fashion editor, stylist and personal shopper for

women over 50, I have a front row seat to women’s wardrobes and fashion woes. The phrase “What about a blazer?” starts many conversations and ends many fashion dilemmas. From extra pounds

and bulges to the “I have nothing to wear” issue, a jacket is often the best solution to putting together a stress-free outfit. The only decision is which one to choose. Wondering whether to

go single or double breasted? Deciding between oversized, cropped or relaxed? Velvet or plaid? Check out the best new styles below and tips on how to choose and wear them. Loft Faux Leather

Relaxed Blazer in Black ($96, loft.com) (Left) and Everlane The Oversized Blazer in Buttersmooth in Heather Steel ($198, everlane.com) (Right) AARP (Loft, Everlane) 1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT

STYLE FOR YOUR BODY AND LIFE. So, let’s clarify a few things first, especially the term “blazer.” This used to mean a structured notch-collar jacket with buttons and pockets. It still does,

but not exclusively. If you’re shopping online, notice that the category of “blazers” now includes a variety of indoor jacket looks, fits and lengths including cropped, collarless, knit and

open-front styles. While you can of course throw-on a blazer and dash outdoors in warm or mild weather, the “blazers” in this post emphasize indoor wear. For simplicity I am using the terms

blazer, cropped and jacket. So, what am I leaving out? Any jacket that is labeled “shrunken” or cropped above the waist (too “junior”), ridiculously oversized blazers and those with obvious

shoulder pads or puff sleeves (too costume-y). Here are the 10 you need to know better: SINGLE-BREASTED BLAZERS. This classic style — now in relaxed fits with a modern aesthetic — meshes

with every wardrobe. Worn open or closed, a one-button blazer in a neutral color like the LANE BRYANT PERFECT DRAPE BLAZER IN BLACK ($120, lanebryant.com) has day or night versatility and

pairs easily with jeans and a turtleneck or tailored pants and a crisp white button-down shirt. Own at least one and start with black. OVERSIZED BLAZERS. These have a looser straighter fit

that varies from boyfriend silhouettes to more generously cut styles like EVERLANE’S OVERSIZED BLAZER IN BUTTERSMOOTH IN HEATHER STEEL, BLACK OR NAVY ($198, everlane.com). For a flattering

look pair any roomy jacket with a slim base like straight-leg jeans or trim pull-on pants. Though the cut may tempt you to overdo the layering beneath … don’t, not unless you plan on wearing

the jacket open. A “stuffed” look beneath a jacket does your body no favors. DOUBLE-BREASTED BLAZERS. These sophisticated blazers also known as DB are trending in every variation from a

minimalist — two buttons across style — to a double row of six buttons. Styles like the BOSTON PROPER MODERN DOUBLE-BREASTED BLAZER IN CAMEL, BLACK OR OLIVE NIGHT ($150, bostonproper.com)

emphasize and flatter curvy figures due to the graduated button placement. HOURGLASS BLAZERS. Jackets with a nipped in waist suggest an hourglass silhouette and make the most of any indent

you have going on at 50. Look for slightly longer styles that flare towards the hem such as the FUTURE COLLECTIVE WOMEN’S NIPPED WAIST BLAZER IN CHARCOAL GRAY ($45, target.com) which looks

like an elongated peplum. LEATHER BLAZERS AND CROPS. If you want the edgy vibe of a black leather biker jacket minus the tough route 66 effect, try a buttery one like the LOFT FAUX LEATHER

RELAXED BLAZER IN BLACK ($96, loft.com). While a moto jacket may look great over jeans, tailored leathers with a notched collar or a cropped style can go casual or dressy and are more fun

than another woven tailored blazer. PONTE BLAZERS. Structured but stretchy, ponte knit blazers are tops for work and travel. Styles like the SPANX ASYMMETRIC PONTE KNIT BLAZER IN CLASSIC

BLACK ($228, nordstrom.com) absolutely do not wrinkle even after hours sitting at a desk, a long flight or an overnight being folded in a suitcase. If you wear business clothes, this is your

next splurge. PLAID BLAZERS. These are trending and come in lots of styles, but the most flattering is relaxed notch-collar blazers that are inspired by menswear. Look for small plaids,

checks and herringbones in neutral colors like MADEWELL’S KLINE BLAZER IN COOPER PLAID ($200, madewell.com) rather than large, exaggerated patterns for a tasteful chic look. COLLARLESS

BLAZERS. Minus any lapels, streamlined blazers like the BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY PONTE COLLARLESS BLAZER IN NEW MALLARD GREEN OR BLACK ($102, bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com) are ideal

for anyone who prefers a frill-free jacket or makes statement necklaces their signature look and wants an uncluttered backdrop to show them off. CROPPED JACKETS. These feminine alternatives

to notch-collar blazers are known as “lady jackets” though they mimic classic couture styles (especially those of Chanel). Cropped at the waist, they feature a boucle texture, multiple

buttons and pockets for an upscale vibe. Choose a neutral white or black or a classy red like the J. CREW ISABELLE LADY JACKET IN TWEED - RADIANT RUBY ($199, jcrew.com). SWEATER BLAZERS.

Soft but tailored, notch-collar cardigans such as the J. CREW FACTORY SCHOOLBOY SWEATER BLAZER IN ROASTED COCOA OR HTHR ACORN, ANTIQUE NAVY OR BLACK ($65, factory.jcrew.com) are perfect for

those who prefer less structure more coziness with a professional attitude.