The Right Way(s) to Wear a Blazer and Jeans

Certain combos are truly iconic. PB&J. Mario and Luigi. Vodka and soda. And, of course, blazers and jeans. (OK, technically we’re talking about sport coats and jeans, but since so many people use the term “blazer” when they really mean “sport coat,” we’re going to roll with it in this story.) A good pair of jeans is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you’ll ever own. As is a great jacket. Putting them together just makes sense.

Worried you’re going to look dated? Or, worse, like a politician trying to dress down for theatrical effect? We understand. Done wrong—say, with skinny jeans and an orphaned suit jacket—the look can go very bad, very fast. But once you understand the essentials, it’s easy to master. You’ll want to consider the cut of your jeans as well as the wash. You’ll also want to make sure that you’re choosing a jacket that’s appropriately casual. The fabric should have some texture, and patch or flap pockets are far preferable to jetted. When matched up just right, the blazer and jeans look work for any setting, whether it’s the office, a family dinner, or some pre-wedding festivities.

Your own version of the dynamic duo awaits. To get started, browse our jeans and blazer starter packs, suitable for every scenario.

The Office

Dressing for work may be the trickiest of all. Of course, there’s the professional vibe check to be done. Do people wear mostly suits? Are sneakers acceptable? This combo is usually reserved for offices with business casual dress codes. Keep your jeans simple. Save the tattered and frayed pairs for the weekend and instead, opt for straight or slim fit denim in a dark wash. The beauty of the blazer and jeans duo for the office is that it works year-round. Go for a heavily textured wool blazer—think tweed, or something felted—during cold months and lighten up when temps rise. Layer a corduroy shirt underneath and throw on some brogues, and you’re all set.

Levi’s Men’s 501 Original Fit Jeans

Now 40% Off

Portuguese Flannel Lobo Button-Down Collar Cotton-Corduroy Shirt

Grenson Archie Leather Brogues

Elevated Dinner

There are levels to dinner dressing. We’re looking at “elevated” from the lens of dinner with your boss or in-laws, or a hard-to-get res that skews on the fancy but not stuffy side. The blazer is the anchor here. So that you’re not the most underdressed or overdressed guy in the room, go with a double-breasted blazer and a dark indigo wash jean. For the shirt, an oxford cloth button-down will look polished but not too formal. As for shoes, the Esquire-beloved Gucci Horsebit 1953 Loafer is the perfect finisher.

Brooks Brothers Men’s Classic Fit Stretch Wool Double-Breasted 1818 Blazer

Levi’s Levi’s Men’s 501 Original Fit Jeans (Also Available in Big & Tall), Rigid, 32W x 34L

Now 31% Off

Gucci Men’s Horsebit 1953 Loafer

Bonobos Everyday Oxford Shirt

Casual Meeting

You’re working remotely from your members-only club and need to take a meeting. Sure, whoever you’re meeting with may not mind the knit sweater you’re most productive in, but a blazer and jeans mean business. Bring in a little pattern on the jacket and opt for straight fit jeans with some character to the denim. A knitted polo walks the line between relaxation and refinement. And a chukka boot is a solid footwear choice to carry you right through to spring.

Abercrombie & Fitch Sport Coat

Now 30% Off

J.Crew Wallace & Barnes Straight-Fit Jean

Ribbed Modal-Cotton Resort Shirt

Thursday Boot Company Scout Chukka Boots

Seaside Dinner Party

Maybe it’s a beachside rehearsal dinner or an anniversary party on a boat; the key to dressing in warmer weather or waterside settings is wearing layerable pieces. Seaside scenarios tend to be more laid back, so this is the time to break out the light-wash jeans. Blazers do work in warmer weather, but the material matters. Linen will be among the coolest, and a temperature-regulating merino polo shirt will help keep you comfortable. Speaking of comfort: Slip into a classic pair of loafers to finish off the look.