12 designer women’s blazers that’ll stand the test of time - The Times

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Anecdotally, the blazer began as a Cambridge rowing uniform in the 19th century. Athletes sported scarlet flannel jackets on the water to stay warm and the colour looked as if it was “blazing” across the water. The name stuck and, as history proves, so did the silhouette.

The jacket also has military associations –– Queen Victoria admired the double-breasted, naval blazers worn by the crew of HMS Blazer in 1837 so much that the style became standardised across the service. The 20th century saw the blazer become mainstream in men’s fashion.

Women, however, have Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent to thank for introducing sharp feminine tailoring. Founded in 1961, YSL’s Le Smoking tuxedo made headlines for blurring traditional gender stereotypes and redefining female power dressing. By the Eighties, an oversized, shoulder-padded, belted blazer was a foundation in the working woman’s uniform.

And the blazer’s enduring appeal shows no sign of waning. On recent runways, Celine styled oversized versions with tailored trousers and rollnecks, while Dior paired them with miniskirts and heels. Elsewhere, Gucci layered blazers over shirts, colourful tights, or, daringly, buttoned up with nothing underneath.

Saint Laurent has been synonymous with blazers since Le Smoking. Made in Italy, this oversized, single-breasted style is cut from a wool-blend herringbone pattern and trimmed with padded shoulders in homage to the original.£2,815, Saint Laurent at Mytheresa

Eschewing classic lapels for a unique stand collar, London-based Liberowe’s blazer is cut from a soft cashmere and brushed wool blend. The single-breasted design features a singular chest pocket and two further patch pockets at the hips which are complemented by defining darts.£1,400, Liberowe at Net-a-Porter

Toteme’s blazer is finished with frayed edges on the lapels and button-down. Cut into a boxy fit, the Stockholm-based brand is making the case that linen can belong in the office and as well as abroad.£880, Toteme

For a timeless black blazer look to The Frankie Shop. Pair this fitted, structured style the matching tailored trousers for maximum impact.£295, The Frankie Shop at Selfridges

Brunello Cucinelli, a champion of understated dressing, has created a pinstriped blazer that channels 1980s power dressing. The striking silhouette is defined by the cinched, belted waist, but can also be worn open for a more casual look.£3,750, Brunello Cucinelli at Mytheresa

Loewe’s bold blazer is inspired by the original’s colour which “blazed” along the river banks of Cambridge. The warm wool-blend makes it ideal for colder days, while the nipped waist and notch lapels add a feminine touch.£2,100, Loewe at Mytheresa

If party dressing always poses a dilemma, this black velvet Gucci blazer could be the answer to your wardrobe woes. Adorned with crystal embroidery, pair it with tailored trousers or layered over a little black dress.£3,570, Gucci

Alexander McQueen is inspired by traditional men’s suiting, but the sharp and structured lines of this blazer are complemented by a feminine waterfall collar. Wear over a block-colour rollneck to allow the ruffles to take centre stage.£2,190, Alexander McQueen

Victoria Beckham excels at elegant tailoring, and this midnight-blue blazer proves it. Cut in fitted velvet and trimmed with satin lapels, it’ll see you from presentation to Christmas party.£1,100, Victoria Beckham at Mytheresa

If you’re looking for a blazer that is more corporate than casual, look to Max Mara’s pinstripe design. Although the pattern and double-breasted cut is traditionally found in men’s tailoring, the Italian brand uses strong shoulder pads and a nipped waist to create a feminine silhouette.£1,025, Max Mara at Mytheresa

There’s something distinctly Eighties about a houndstooth blazer. Having taken notes from her Savile Row training, Stella McCartney’s single-breasted design features notched lapels and internal pockets. Simple, but seriously effective.£1,570, Stella McCartney at Mytheresa

Robert Redford and James Brown famously loved brown suede blazers in the Seventies –– and Stouls Jones has proved they haven’t gone out of style. A more casual choice, this double-breasted design features subtle burgundy undertones. Wear it with jeans and white tee at weekends, or an all-black outfit in the office.£1,745, Stouls Jones at Mytheresa

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