Jackets vs Blazers: What is the difference?
Jackets vs blazers: two iconic pieces in men’s fashion.
Both versatile and adaptable to various styles, these garments are frequently mistaken for one another, despite some differences. The term “jacket” originates from the Old French word “Jacques”, which referred to a group of peasants known for wearing a short, simply cut jacket.
On the other hand, the term “blazer” derives from the English verb “to blaze”, meaning shine, a reference to the garment’s signature shiny metallic buttons. Since their origin, these two pieces of clothing have evolved adapting to shifts and emerging trends in the fashion industry, yet remaining timeless wardrobe essentials. Let’s find out more about how jackets and blazers differ.
Table of contents
1. The main difference between jackets & blazers
If you are wondering what is the difference between a blazer and a suit jacket, the answer lies in several key aspects, including models, fabrics and shoulder design. To fully grasp these distinctions, let’s clearly define each of these garments and their unique characteristics.
Suit jacket
While modern jackets are synonymous with elegance, their origins are far from refined. First worn by French peasants in the 14th century, the jacket has undergone many transformations over the years.
In its earliest iterations, the jacket was designed as a formal piece, characterized by a distinct structure. Over time, it has adapted to a variety of styles and contexts. Today, we refer to it as a suit jacket, as it is an essential part of a polished, formal outfit consisting of pants, shirt and jacket.
Blazer
The blazer, unlike a traditional jacket, was born to stand alone, needing no matching pants or formal shirt. Its origins trace back to British college teams, where it first appeared as a symbol of unity and spirit. What truly sets the blazer apart, though, is not just its independence from a full suit—it is the effortless, relaxed and unstructured silhouette that gives it a more laid-back, yet refined appeal.
2. Different models
One of the key differences between a men’s classic blazer and a suit jacket lies in their structure. The blazer, often shorter and more relaxed, features softer shoulders and, in its timeless model Navy Blazer, striking metal buttons that create a beautiful contrast with the fabric. It effortlessly captures a casual yet polished vibe.
In contrast, the suit jacket is longer and more structured, typically single-breasted with refined flap pockets and buttons that blend seamlessly with the fabric, giving it a more formal and tailored elegance.
Complete a more elegant look
If you are aiming for a more refined, elegant look , the suit jacket is undoubtedly your best bet. Paired with classic trousers and a crisp white shirt, it exudes timeless sophistication. But you can also add a modern twist by layering it with a luxurious cashmere crewneck sweater, breaking away from tradition while still maintaining a polished, upscale vibe.
More casual outfit
The blazer, on the other hand, is perfect for those who want a more laid-back, sporty vibe without sacrificing style. Take, for instance, the Boglioli K-Jacket - its completely unstructured design strikes the ideal balance between elegance and casual ease.
Another example of casual outfit, ideal for winter time, are men’s sport coats with a simple pair of the iconic denim jeans. This pairing effortlessly blends comfort with sophistication, resulting in an outfit both informal and refined.
3. Shoulders
Shoulders play a crucial role in distinguishing a jacket from a blazer, and they come in various styles, each with its unique characteristics.
Roped shoulder
The most classic type of shoulder design is the roped one. Its standout feature is the thick, roped padding towards the end of the shoulder, which creates a distinctive silhouette.
Neapolitan shoulder
The Neapolitan shoulder, often referred to as “a camicia”, is known for its unique effect at the start of the sleeve. Characterized by delicate folds at the seam where the sleeve meets the shoulder, this design offers unparalleled comfort. The craftsmanship behind this shoulder style allows the sleeve to move freely, ensuring that the wearer feels unrestricted and at ease in any situation.
Italian shoulder
The Italian or natural shoulder, on the other hand, is a loosely structured and lightly padded design that creates a seamless transition between the shoulder and the sleeve. This relaxed and natural effect makes it a popular choice for blazers.
English shoulder
The English shoulder, known also as structured shoulder, features more padding than the natural version, lending the jacket a more refined and distinguished appearance.
4. Fabrics and inner construction
Jackets and blazers differ in terms of inner construction and fabrics. Typically, the jacket is crafted with a more structured design, often featuring full canvas construction. It is typically made from the same fabric and color as the matching pants, giving it a cohesive, polished look.
The blazer has a more relaxed and softer fit, lacking a defined structure. Since blazers are meant to be worn separately from suits, there are no strict fabric rules, allowing for greater flexibility in material selection that does not need to coordinate with pants.
The internal finishes of the jacket
The interior of the jacket is typically lined with satin contrasting fabric, like blue pairing with burgundy. Sometimes, the lining complements the outer fabric, using a different shade of the same color for a refined finish.
The internal finishes of the blazer
Blazers, being more casual and informal, are usually unlined inside. However, they often feature the same fabric and color as the exterior.
5. Conclusion
While they may seem similar, jackets and blazers are distinct garments, each suited for different occasions and settings. Boglioli presents a curated selection of jackets and blazers for modern men looking to elevate their style.