11 Best Blazers for Every Occasion and Body Type

Men’s casual blazers, or sport coats, are a timeless menswear staple. Unless you’re living in a remote mountain town, there’s always a need for a tailored jacket with lapels. Whether for a formal event or a more casual yet put-together outing, having a few casual blazers in your wardrobe ensures you’re prepared for occasions that demand a touch of polish. 

The best casual blazers for men should embody easy elegance, instantly elevating any look. They’re perfect for tossing on over a white T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers or pairing with khakis and a dress shirt. No longer reserved strictly for formalwear, a versatile blazer suits a range of settings, blending style and functionality.

We focused on key lifestyle needs and trusted brands. We intentionally left out summer textiles like linen, as well as formal blazers for black-tie events, which are more specialized. The casual blazers for men below are best suited to fall, winter, and spring.

While we kept different budgets in mind, investing a little more in a well-constructed blazer is always worth it for a garment that will last years. We picked Ralph Lauren Polo Unconstructed Tailored Chino Jacket as the best men’s casual blazer overall for your day-to-day sartorial needs, but with so many impeccable blazers, there’s something for everyone. Keep in mind that a blazer may not fit perfectly right off the rack, so it’s wise to visit a tailor for adjustments.

Best Men’s Casual Blazers at a Glance

• Best Casual Blazer for Men Overall: Ralph Lauren Polo Unconstructed Tailored Chino Jacket
• Best Business Casual Blazer: Banana Republic Signature Italian Nailhead Suit Jacket
• Best Double-Breasted Blazer: Suitsupply Navy Tailored Fit Havana Blazer
• Best Blazer for Travel: Rhone Commuter Blazer

Best Casual Blazers for Men of 2024

Best Blazer for Men Overall: Ralph Lauren Polo Unconstructed Tailored Chino Jacket

While wool or wool-blend blazers tend to be dressier, a cotton blazer offers just as much versatility with a casual, utilitarian edge. Ralph Lauren Polo Unstructured Tailored Chino Jacket combines the refined, tailored feel of a traditional wool blazer with the everyday practicality of stretch cotton. With an ideal tailored silhouette, it’s mostly unstructured, with lining only in the sleeves and back yoke. The natural shoulder with no padding allows the jacket to drape over your body. It’s also great for travel thanks to the three percent spandex for ease of movement and the storage offered by interior and exterior flap pockets. It’s functional and stylish, and details like pick stitching along the lapel add an authentic handmade feel. The “nautical ink” is a timeless choice, but at this price point, it’s worth adding the tan version to your blazer rotation. Wear this with jeans and a T-shirt or a dress shirt and chinos. Trust us, it all works.

Best Utility Blazer: Flint and Tinder 365 Utility Blazer

A utility blazer should be versatile enough to be dressed up or down and workable on a hike as well as in the office. In this respect, Flint and Tinder 365 Utility Blazer remains unrivaled. Unlined for maximum breathability, packability, and comfort, it features twill tape binding on the inner seams to help keep out the elements. Along with three exterior patch pockets, an inside zip pocket adds extra security for keys or a wallet. The adjustable button cuffs and side button tabs at the waist provide customization on the trail or in the boardroom. While all the colors are handsome, the olive stands out with its military-inspired vibe. Pop the collar and fasten the throat latch for a relaxed, tailored look that keeps out the elements.

Best Form-Fitting Wool Blazer: Charles Tyrwhitt Unstructured Wool Twill Jacket

This new Unstructured Wool Twill Jacket from suiting stalwart Charles Tyrwhitt is the perfect go-to blazer for work and any fall or winter event that requires that oomph of polish. It’s unassuming, and that is precisely the point. Crafted from 100-percent pure merino wool, the blazer is breathable, soft, and mid-weight—ideal for fall through spring, though possibly a bit heavy for summer. The half-lined interior and lack of shoulder padding allow the jacket to drape naturally, offering an effortless, elegant fit. Wear this all winter long to add refined, textured tailoring to your dressier ensembles.

Best Business Casual Blazer: Banana Republic Signature Italian Nailhead Suit Jacket

The Banana Republic design team spent three years perfecting the fit of this subtly elegant Signature Italian Nailhead Suit Jacket, and the results speak for themselves. It is fully lined and perfect for dressier occasions, yet it drapes beautifully, thanks to its luxurious wool fabric sourced from Italy. It offers a slight stretch with just one percent elastane and is also wrinkle-resistant and highly breathable. The nailhead texture, a weaving technique that forms a subtle pattern resembling tiny nail heads, adds sophistication and character, making it a chic choice for both business casual and formal settings.

Best Cotton Weekend Blazer: Alex Mill Mill Blazer in Vintage Wash Chino

Alex Mill makes effortlessly cool essentials, many instantly recognizable by their lived-in, garment-dyed finish and relaxed yet tailored silhouettes. Alex Mill Mill Blazer in Vintage Wash Chino is no exception. You’ll want this blazer for all your weekend activities that call for somewhat elevated looks. Made from 100 percent cotton, it’s inherently more casual, with a half-lining that allows it to drape naturally to your body. A bit more robust than a typical blazer, it wears almost like a chore jacket, thanks to the patch pockets and three-button design. However, the lapels maintain a tailored edge. Pair it with a thin merino crewneck sweater or an Oxford shirt to instantly add character to your fit.

Best Double-Breasted Blazer: Suitsupply Navy Tailored Fit Havana Blazer

As we mentioned in our fall style trends piece, double-breasted blazers are very much back in (though did they ever really go out?). We could easily dedicate a full-length guide to the best double-breasted blazers, but we’ll focus on one standout. While plenty of cotton and casual options are available, this all-season pure wool Suitsupply Navy Tailored Fit Havana Blazer is sleek, minimal, and incredibly versatile with innate swagger even Mick Jagger could cheer. Jetted pockets add formality, while half-canvas construction ensures it drapes well. A great double-breasted blazer (aka DB) usually has a peak lapel, like this one, as it lets you pop the collar and wear it open for a rakish vibe, or wear it traditionally with just the top button fastened.

Best Knit Blazer: Bonobos Jetsetter Knit Blazer

A knit blazer sits at the more casual end of the sports jacket spectrum but offers enough elegance to keep you looking sharp in a pinch, and these blazers tend to be very, very comfortable. Knit fabrics are crafted with interlocking loops, giving them a spongy, textured feel reminiscent of a sweater. Bonobos Jetsetter Knit Blazer is unstructured and primarily unlined for a relaxed, breathable fit built for layering. Made from a blend of wool, polyester, and viscose, it’s lightweight and versatile—great for dressing up a T-shirt or providing some ease to a dress shirt. It also functions as a transitional jacket between seasons due to its mid-weight fabric and texture.

Best Houndstooth Blazer: Todd Snyder Italian Wool Sportcoat in Brown Houndstooth

Aside from plaid, houndstooth is one of the most classic, handsome, and sophisticated patterns for a blazer. Todd Snyder’s take on this timeless design is a truly sly sartorial flex. Crafted primarily from wool with a touch of polyamide, Todd Snyder Italian Wool Sportcoat in Brown Houndstooth has no padding or lining (notice a theme here?), allowing it to drape naturally and conform to your body. Pair this handsome houndstooth piece with light-wash denim and a turtleneck for a chic yet approachable look this fall. Just be sure to keep the rest of your outfit neutral, as this blazer makes a bold statement all its own. Down with shoulder pads!

Best Blazer for Travel: Rhone Commuter Blazer

Rhone Commuter Blazer consistently earns top marks as the best commute or travel blazer, and for good reason. This jacket is very lightweight and crafted from Rhone’s patented Flex-Knit fabric, which is made primarily of polyester with four-way stretch for easy movement. Two interior pockets and a zippered pocket keep your essentials secure while on the go during your morning bike or at the airport. Available in a range of neutral tones—navy, black, and gray—there’s a shade to complement any outfit, with slim and classic fits to suit most body types.

Best Corduroy Blazer: J.Crew Crosby Classic-Fit Blazer in English Cotton Corduroy

Corduroy is definitely having a moment (though it never goes out of style) for its trad elegance and rich texture. While the J.Crew Ludlow blazer has long received praise, J.Crew Crosby Classic-Fit Blazer in English Cotton Corduroy deserves equal attention, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed silhouette—ideal for complementing corduroy’s laid-back feel. The Crosby provides extra room in the arms, chest, and waist, along with a slightly wider lapel that pairs beautifully with the rich olive hue of this wide-wale corduroy. Perfect for holiday parties or when you want to channel your inner Wes Anderson, this blazer guarantees you’ll be one of the most stylish guys in the room.

Best Technical Blazer: Proof Nomad Blazer

Proof Nomad Blazer combines sleek style with impressive technical features you wouldn’t typically expect from a tailored jacket. It is designed to handle whatever comes your way and features a DWR (durable water-repellent) coating to protect against spills and rain. Its wrinkle-resistant fabric means you can pack it into a weekend bag or briefcase and still look sharp when you arrive. Though we usually advocate for natural fibers in blazers, the use of polyester here makes sense for a technical piece of this caliber. Despite this, it has a cotton-like feel with both stretch and softness. With mesh-lined hip pockets and a range of hidden chest and stash pockets for your essentials, this blazer is as functional as they come without sacrificing style.

Related: 15 Best Corduroy Pants of 2024 That Are Effortlessly Cool

How We Chose the Best Men’s Casual Blazers

All the blazers above bring an air of tailored refinement to any outfit. Each one stands out as the best in its respective category. For example, the double-breasted blazer offers a streamlined, sleek appearance, ideal for dressier occasions, while the cotton twill blazer upgrades your weekend looks with elegant utility. The technical blazer excels for those seeking a jacket that can handle the elements and activities.

What to Look for in a Casual Blazer for Men

A great blazer should stand independently—without needing matching suit trousers—and exude an inherent elegance with a sense of ease. It shouldn’t feel stiff, rigid, or overly shiny, as that often signals a cheaper fabric. Nor should it be overly patterned or too regal in appearance. The best blazers are typically half-lined or unlined, with no shoulder padding, offering a relaxed form that molds to your body and drapes more naturally. While more structured blazers may be ideal for full suits, the ones we focus on strike a balance: They take your look up a notch without sacrificing casual refinement. They occupy the most tailored end of the spectrum while still offering the versatility of a casual men’s jacket, just like your denim or leather jackets. You can pair them with a dress shirt and tie just as easily as you can throw them over a T-shirt. But there are some key factors to consider when choosing the best blazer for your needs.

Fit

Fit is probably the most important factor when finding the best blazer. Your blazer should gently hug your upper body while draping elegantly with the right amount of give; aim for a blazer that flows with your frame without being too tight or loose. The most crucial aspect is the shoulders—the seams should align with your natural shoulder line. As for the sleeves, they should end right at the wrist bone, with about half an inch of your shirt cuff peeking out for a polished finish. The fit should still suit your personality, however. Some might prefer a slimmer, tailored fit, while others lean toward a looser, more relaxed silhouette that’s currently on trend. Razor-sharp tailoring may not be in right now, but trust us, it will return. Many off-the-rack blazers will need minor adjustments, which any good tailor can handle.

Lining and Structure

Unstructured jackets are more versatile than blazers with padding or lining. While lining works well for suit jackets, if you’re looking for a blazer that can be dressed up or down, opting for an unstructured blazer with minimal lining (and minimal or no canvassing, the inner layer of fabric) is ideal. It is a softer, more relaxed, yet equally elegant silhouette. Fully lined blazers add structure and a dressier feel but can feel heavier, while half-lined or unlined blazers are lighter and more breathable, lending a “jacket” feel and making them more versatile in today’s relaxed style climate.

Style

Single-breasted blazers with one row of buttons are the most common and versatile. Double-breasted blazers, with two rows of buttons, are more elegant and currently having a moment. Lapel styles also influence the blazer’s formality: Peak lapels are considered sharper, and notched lapels are standard and versatile. Patch pockets give the blazer a more relaxed, casual vibe, while flap pockets generally give a slightly dressier look.

Fabric

For fall through spring, the two primary fabrics for blazers are wool and cotton. Wool is classic, known for its elegant and dressy feel, and suitable for year-round wear. Cotton, by contrast, is more casual and versatile, ideal for transitional seasons. Cotton twill adds extra durability and structure. While I don’t always love combining performance textiles like nylon or polyester with tailoring, they have their strengths. In such cases, look for stretch and moisture-wicking attributes. Lastly, fabric blends like wool-silk provide added texture, elegance, and style, combining the best qualities of each material for both comfort and sophistication.

Details

As you well know, details matter. Which details? Horn or metal buttons offer a more refined, elegant look, while tonal buttons give a minimalist, sleek aesthetic. Vents, the slits at the back bottom of the blazer, come in single or double options. They provide mobility and ensure the blazer drapes comfortably, particularly when seated. Lastly, pick stitching—a subtle row of stitches along the lapels—adds a level of craftsmanship, giving the blazer visual detail and a hand-finished look.

Related: We Researched Hundreds of Menswear Essentials. These Are the Pieces You Need for Fall

Why You Should Trust Me

In addition to writing for Men’s Journal, I’ve covered topics spanning menswear, fragrances, watches, grooming, and styling for InsideHook, Robb Report, Esquire, and Men’s Health. I served as the market editor at Esquire for several years, scouring the industry for the best garments and goods that were not only worth the investment but also made for compelling stories and good advice for our readers. And naturally, I spent an inordinate number of hours in search of natty blazers to throw on en route to the office or fashion events.