Finding wardrobe classics that you return to again and again is key when building your signature style. For some it’s that classic white t-shirt or that perfect mid-blue pair of jeans. It might be a well-loved trench coat or simply a pair of wear-with-everything black boots. The hardest working item in my wardrobe? A leather blazer.
The leather blazer: your new wardrobe staple
Surprisingly, it’s become one of the most versatile pieces I own. Mine is from Zara – bought back in 2019 as a statement piece. Little did I know it would become a frequent staple of mine. It’s plain black, super soft and cost me less than £80. Everyone who sees it – and strokes it – thinks the leather isn’t faux. I boast that it’s vegan, but it feels like the real deal – and that’s what makes it brilliant.
Why should I buy a leather blazer?
It’s not just another black blazer. The textural effect of the leather makes it sleeker, sexier and more stand-out, adding a little bit of drama to any day-to-day look. I like to think of it as an elevated basic. And I’m certainly not the only mega fan. Our love affair with leather tailoring began in the 90s, becoming the uniform of the A-list and the elite – Jennifer Aniston and Cindy Crawford were early adopters, along with Gwyneth Paltrow.
Are leather blazers in style for 2022?
Today’s supers are also die-hard fans. Like mother, like daughter – Kaia Gerber (daughter of Cindy) has been spotted in hers. Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber are also into the look along with Kendall Jenner. The more you look for them, the more you will see.
What to wear with a leather blazer
In summer: you may not think this is a summer-friendly buy – but you’re wrong. The beauty of this cover-up is that it’s timeless and therefore seasonless. From now into autumn I wear mine over every dress as a jacket and over satin slips in the evening for a little bit more oomph.
Mid-wash denim and simple white blouses, or even striped nautical knits also match with it well for the office.
In winter: as it gets colder, I like to style mine over a heavyweight midi dress or dark wash jeans. Generally speaking, you can wear it with just about anything – just keep scrolling for the edit of the best styles to buy now. And don’t forget to add cat eye sunglasses for maximum sass!
Vegan leather blazers
What to look for when buying a faux leather blazer
To avoid looking like you’re wearing a bin bag, opt for the softest faux leathers you can find. Avoid anything overly shiny as this can make the style appear cheap.
The best faux leather blazers on the high street
Starting where my obsession began: Zara. There are tons of brilliant high-quality styles to shop online and in store – and with prices starting at £59.99 you really can’t go wrong. For a great no-fuss flap pocket design try Pull & Bear, £35.99. The Crolenda suit jacket, £145, by French Connection is another great casual option, albeit a little pricier, as it comes in a dreamy lilac shade, £72. This purple version won’t be a staple style, but it’s a statement option instead. Looking for an eco-conscious swap? Urban Outfitters’ recycled faux leather style, £59, is for you. I love the deep chocolate brown shade and the ‘70s-inspired, vintage cut.
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Real leather blazers
What to look for when shopping for real leather jackets
Real leather is a worthy investment, although it comes with a larger price tag. But for pieces you will wear repeatedly, the pay-out can be worth it. You just need to know what you’re looking for. Always check the hide quality, look for metal or blend in buttons, full lining, sharp lapels and for functioning pockets.
The best leather blazers on the high street to invest in
Best overall: Arket
Perhaps the best pick of the High Street is Arket’s oversized iteration – a steal for £299 – the premium hide will age really nicely over time.
Best beige leather: Warehouse
For a similarly great bargain, but in buttery beige, look no further than Warehouse’s boyfriend blazer, £245. Bear in mind that beige is just another neutral – you don’t have to stick to black.
Best boxy fit: Muubaa
I also love the Muubaa boxy-cut style, £214, ASOS, with panelled seams and sharp notch lapels – and it goes up to a size 16.
Best for sustainable leather: Jigsaw
Jigsaw’s ethically sourced nappa leather version, £350, is also fabulous and fits true to size – always think of cost per wear.
Best longline leather jacket: Cos
Or for a longline design that could be worn further into the winter months, head to COS, £350.
Best khaki leather blazer: Massimo Dutti
For a utilitarian twist, try Massimo Dutti’s khaki leather darted shirt, £269, with buttoned cuffs and a flattering waist.
Best double-breasted leather jacket: Karen Millen
Double-breasted designs are a classic and work splendidly with t-shirts in summer and rollnecks in winter. Karen Millen’s double breasted style, £335, with gold buttons will do just the trick.
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