So what the heck is a sweater blazer? It’s a knit but structured like a blazer. So why not opt for a blazer instead? Because a sweater blazer is a great transitional piece from winter to spring and then again at the end of summer to early fall. You can dress it up or dress it down and it’s less stuffy than a transitional blazer and a great stand-in for a cardigan.
The Perks of Wearing a Sweater Blazer
It’s much easier to find a sweater blazer that works for your frame than a traditional blazer. Three problem areas that I normally encounter with a traditional blazer:
- Shoulder pads. Hello broad shoulders!!! I am SO not a fan of shoulder pads, but understand why most blazers have them. I have broad shoulders and won’t go near a jacket or coat that has them. I already look like a linebacker, I don’t need extra help in that area. The sweater blazer does not typically have shoulder pads. Thank goodness!
- Tight arms, yeah this one is huge!!! My arms are on the larger side so this is another reason why I love the sweater blazer. The knit is so forgiving and allows more room compared to a structured blazer.
- Can’t button at the chest. The true fit-test! If you can’t button a blazer it’s too small. Even though most women wear them open it’s still nice to have the option to wear it closed. When I wear a sweater blazer, the knit material provides more give then the traditional blazer.
How to Wear a Sweater Blazer?
The easiest way to get in the mindset of wearing a sweater blazer is to think about the items that you would wear a cardigan with. For example, whenever I wear a sleeveless blouse I like to style it with a jacket or a cardigan. So do a swap for a sweater blazer instead.
When to Wear a Sweater Blazer?
- Work is the most obvious time to wear a sweater blazer. It would look super cute paired with pants and a blouse or for a more dressy look. You could also wear it over a sleeveless dress or with a skirt.
- Play. Wear to brunch or alfresco for a late lunch or early dinner. I think it would look nice paired with shorts and wedges.
- Evening. Date night or a casual dinner with friends.
If you know me, I’m not super into trends and prefer the classics. So I love it when they circle back around and become the trend of the moment – straw bags, white denim, and the sweater blazer! I’m not sure about that last one, but you get the idea.
How I like to Wear It
To elevate this outfit, I went for a polka dot sweater blazer. The juxtaposition of the polka dot with the stripes takes this look to the next level and makes it more interesting.
Isn’t this blazer the cutest?! I picked it up pre-quarantine and it’s now on sale and available in a handful of colors and prints. For size reference, I’m wearing an XL. It’s on the larger side but the L was too small and was shorter in length. The next time I wear this blazer I am going to style it with white denim.
If you’re also a fan of preppy clothing, check out the other items by 1901 (Nordstorm brand). A lot of it is on sale and it’s a great time to snap them up!
Are you a fan of the sweater blazer? Share in the comments.
Shop the Post:
Blazer: Nordstrom | T-shirt: J.Crew | Jeans: J.Crew (similar) | Purse: J.Crew | Shoes: Born (similar) | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Lipstick: BeautyCounter (Color Intense Lipstick: 9 to 5)
Photography: S. Wolfe Photography
Love the sweater blazer. Very versatile.
My arms are a bit on the bigger side as well, so I think a sweater blazer would work for me. Also, digging your denim.