Types of Jackets for Men

This article is dedicated to all my male friends, colleagues and acquaintances. Though it is dedicated to my male friends, even my female friends can read the article and share this knowledge with their boyfriends, better halves and hubby's ?

Have you ever observed the change that happens when you wear a jacket? You suddenly start feeling confident, your walk and posture changes and you feel more empowered. At least I get this feeling whenever I wear my jacket. That’s the reason the Jacket is considered as an important element of the wardrobe.

Last week I was discussing formal wear with my hubby, and  happened to ask him whether he knew the difference between a Suit Jacket, Blazer and Sport Jacket and he replied “No”. I also asked a few of my close friends and they too were ignorant on the matter. So I decided to write this article “Types of Jackets for Men”.

There is no one jacket that is better than the other. It all depends on your need, role, goal and occasion. Although not very different from each other, each of these jackets have enough subtle differences to set them apart. So let’s understand the difference …..

1.      Suit Jacket: This is a jacket that has matching trouser. Jacket and trouser both are made from the same fabric. It tops the order of formal attire. You will find this jacket in every man’s wardrobe - professionals, entrepreneurs and youngsters who are ready to face the corporate world. We wear it for very formal occasion, where we want to look authoritative and grab attention. Generally, Suit jackets are in solid color (without pattern) and more structured and well fitted. However, it is also possible to find pinstripe or checked suits. The most common colors in suits are:

?       Navy Blue (most common)

?       Charcoal Gray

?       Light Gray

?       Black

2.      Blazers: These are jackets that do not have matching trouser. It stands second in formal attire. A blazer is one of the most cost efficient and versatile items. We can wear blazer for semi-formal to casual occasion.

Few combinations that can be done to create different looks are 

Semi-formal: by wearing it on formal trouser and shirt

Smart Casual: by wearing it on Chinos/Khakis and polo shirt / casual shirts

Casual: by wearing it on jeans and T-shirt

Blazers also comes in solid color (without pattern). It is less structured specially on shoulder and loose fitted. It is recommended that you wear a blazer any time a suit is not appropriate but you still need to dress up. The most common colors in blazer are:

?       Navy Blue

?       Blue

?       Bottle Green

?       Red

?       Regatta stripe (varies widely)

3.      Sport Jackets: They are the least formal style of men’s jackets and stand last in formal attire. They are the perfect piece for smart casual look. The sports jacket was originally worn specifically for sports such as shooting. In today’s world, it is associated with classic yet casual style. Any time you wonder what to wear to a party, a date or for a meeting – a sport jacket will be the answer

The Sport jacket is a remarkably versatile garment and comes in an endless variety of colors, patterns, and fabric types. While patterns include stripes, checks, and herringbone among others, designs like elbow patches, slits, ticket pockets and pleats makes it very eye-catching.

 Since a sports jacket is typically your most loose-fitting option, these pieces do well when layered over sweaters and turtleneck t-shirts.

Despite their differences, suits, blazers and sport jackets are all great additions to a wardrobe, and when styled properly can help achieve a casual yet elegant look!

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