Image via Complex Original
In case you haven't noticed, the tides are changing in the world of men's style. T-shirts, jeans, and sneakers are no longer the de facto uniform for the cool kids. More "dressed-up" casual looks are more versatile and just as easy to wear. Don't be intimidated by blazers and sport coats. What was once a wardrobe staple for yachters and dudes who shop at Men's Wearhouse, is now an essential for any guy with even a modicum of style.
For spring, the key is to remember lightweight fabrics, unstructured fits, and unlined or partially-lined construction. Still, there are a lot of options and it ain't easy to find the one that works for you. We've selected our favorites in a variety of fabrics and styles, so check The Complex Guide to Spring Blazers and get your "grown-man-with-swag" on.
khaki
The Khaki Blazer
You can never go wrong with a classic khaki blazer. The lightweight two button Levi's Made & Crafted blazer is made of linen and cotton so your arm pits can breath easy on steamy days. Plus, the muted shade pairs well with just about any pants, from jeans to bright chinos.
Buy It Now at Farfetch, $375
gray
Cotton
No other fabric is as cool and breathable as cotton. Whether on a date or an interview, a gray cotton blazer is versatile and functional for any occasion. This DKNY cotton blazer looks a helluva lot more expensive than the price suggests.
Buy It Now at DKNY, $88
navy
The Navy Blazer
Not just for the schoolboy prep anymore, the A.P.C. Military Cotton blazer has a solid herringbone fabric which makes it stand apart from its regular navy club blazers. Instead of gold buttons, A.P.C. opts for mother of pearl buttons for a refined look. Subtle updates on a classic style are always a good call.
Buy It Now at A.P.C., $445
sweatshirt
Extra Casual
If you want to get even more casual, the wing + horns Marled Jersey blazer is all you. Made of 100% jersey cotton, this blazer is a more interesting alternative to a hoodie or cardigan. It goes perfectly with a clean white or black tee underneath.
Buy It Now at Nomad, $295
linen
Linen
You may think linen should only be worn at a beach resort, but Oliver Spencer revamped the fabric in this fresh heather gray colorway that makes it much more versatile. Still cool and easy to wear, the Oliver Spencer Navigator is your safest bet to look sophisticated without trying too hard.
Buy It Now at Oliver Spencer, $427
reversible
The Reversible Blazer
If you're into camo but don't want to look like a sergeant every day, try this reversible blazer from Engineered Garments. Two for the price of one! You can wear the pattern side on days when you are feeling bold, and flip it to the plain navy side on days when you are feeling less like a peacock.
tech
Tech Fabrics
The weather during spring is unpredictable, and intead of wearing a windbreaker and a blazer under it, opt for a blazer made of a technical fabric that's water and weather proof. This sleek option from Isaora is cut like a blazer but functions as a rain coat, talk about function and fashion...
Buy It Now at Isaora, $459
chambray
Chambray
We know you have your chambray shirt game on lock, but chambray blazers? This is perhaps the most versatile jacket in the list, being that you can go super-casual by wearing it with a white tee, or turn it all the way up and pair it with a madras shirt and a tie of your choice. The options are endless, and, best of all, priced to cop from the good people at General Assembly.
Buy It Now at Need Supply, $145
madras
Madras
Madras is an easy way to add some pattern into your wardrobe with out going overboard, plus, it will match up perfectly with anything in your wardrobe (except a plaid shirt), this one from the team at B Store will have you set for any occasion from casual every-day wear, to wild nights out.
Buy It Now at Mr Porter, $455
gingham
Gingham
Much like madras, Gingham Blazers are a great way to add some variety to blazer line up, and no one does it better than this one from GANT Rugger. You can rock it with a simple white or blue oxford shirt and solid color tie, remember for spring its all about "go bold or home," YOLO.
Buy It Now at GANT, $595