How to Style a Black Blazer for Women

One of the most basic staple pieces to any woman's wardrobe is a black blazer. Traditionally when you are thinking about how to style a black blazer for women your mind instantly goes to pairing it with suit pants. However, if you’re like me, you’re not always going to be wanting to pair the black blazer with suit pants, you’ll want a more casual look. Today I’m going to share with you some tips and tricks on how to style a black blazer for women. After you finish reading this article, my hope is that you’ll be able to style your black blazer more than a traditional office setting.

History of the women's blazer

For a quick history lesson, In 1914, Coco Chanel saw an opportunity to take a traditional men’s clothing piece; the black blazer and repurpose it for women. Chanel was able to modernize the suit and was credited for the first female suit. Back in 1914, the suit jacket and bottom typically matched. Today, there is more flexibility when it comes to styling a black blazer. Below I’ve broken down for you what type of top to wear under your blazer, what pants go best with a black blazer, how to accessorize your outfit and finishing off with what shoes to wear. The good news, is that women have a lot of flexibility when it comes to styling a black blazer.

What type of top do you wear under your black blazer? 

One of the most common debates is what to wear under a black blazer. Is it a silky top, a cotton top, plain color, or neutral. With so many different options, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what you should wear. In my opinion, I always go for styling with a basic neutral color, such as dark blue, light pink, gray, or even black. For me, that color is white. If I’m going for a more casual look. I wore a basic v neck camisole because I wanted the focus on the black blazer. This blazer by Kobi Halperin has dramatic sleeves, making it an attention grabber. I wanted to make sure the top I wore underneath it was subtle, hence the white top.  

Another option, if you are looking for a more fancy look is to layer it with a silk camisole.

How do you accessorize a black blazer?

You’ve probably heard the saying, it’s all about the details, and when you style a blazer that’s absolutely correct! What better way to add a little detail, than some jewelry? For me, I always love wearing gold. Gold hardware on my purses, gold necklaces, gold rings, even my engagement ring is gold. For this look, I wore these gorgeous Au-rate rings. One thing I always love doing with my rings is stacking, mixing and matching. Today, I paired the twist ring from with a thin gold band, both from Au-Rate. I ordered a smaller size on the gold band, causing the other gold band to sit higher on my finger.

As I mentioned above, by wearing the black leather pants, I felt it was a more of a nightlife look. With that being said, I paired the entire outfit with a black Valentino bag with gold hardware. This bag is great for a night out and can fit my phone, wallet, and metro card inside! 

What type of pants do women wear with the black blazer? 

The pants that you wear with a black blazer will change the entire look of the outfit, and also the mood you set: professional, casual, nightlife, etc. For me, I paired the black blazer and white top with black leather pants. I love the way the fabrics contract with each other. By doing this, I have made the outfit more formal. This look is perfect for a night out or a dinner date. 

If you are looking for an even more casual look, then I definitely recommend light blue jeans to be paired with the black blazer. In Paris, I’ve seen both skinny jeans and “boyfriend” fit jeans styled with a traditional black blazer. I love both of these choices for pants because it really gives women the casual, yet classic and timeless look all bundled into one.

What type of shoes do women prefer when styling the black blazer?

I think the type of shoes you wear really depends on which type of pants you wear. While looking through my closet, I knew I had to wear heels. I wore this outfit for a night out. If you want a more casual look or even walkable shoes, I’d highly consider wearing a trendy tennis shoes, flats or even a pair of booties.  

When I styled this outfit with the dramatic sleeves on the blazer, the white v neck camisole top, and the leather pants, I knew I had to pair it with a pair of black pumps.

Recap on how to style a black blazer for women 

In short, the best way to style a black blazer is pairing it with a white v-neck camisole and a pair of leather pants. The contrasting of the two different fabrics of the blazer and the leather makes for an ultra chic look. Finally, grab some gold jewelry and a pair of heels and there you have it, the ultimate way to style a black blazer for a casual look or night out. 

One of my absolute favorite things about women wearing a blazer jacket is that it will instantly elevate your look. I’d love to hear how you style a black blazer.

Sincerely Petite in Paris,

Diane