In theory, there is little difference between a suit jacket and a blazer. The only real difference is that a suit jacket is meant to be worn in tandem with a matching pair of trousers. On the other hand, a blazer can be worn with just about any pair of pants. They can be worn casually or professionally, while a suit jacket is really only meant for formal or professional occasions. Therefore, a blazer is a more versatile piece of clothing to have in your wardrobe. You can use it to add a little bit of dressiness to a pair of jeans and a nice polo, or to make one of your office outfits look either more professional or business casual, depending on what you pair it with. Blazers are also great options for parties, dates, nights out at the bar with friends, and more. Here are some we recommend.

What to Consider in Men’s Blazers

Here’s what to look into:

• Material: The material you choose for your blazer is going to depend on your needs and where you plan to wear it. Wool, cotton, cotton/polyester blend, and cashmere are all common fabrics that blazers are made from. Silk or linen may be a better choice for warmer temperatures, though it’s worth noting that they’re not as strong and can be more of a challenge to clean and care for than other textiles.
• Look: Are you going for a more professional look or a casual one? Do you want something that is a bit more like a sports coat or a suit coat? Do you want long sleeves, rolled-up sleeves, or three-quarter length sleeves? Do you want pockets or shoulder pads? A slim or oversized fit? Think of what kind of image you want to project with your new blazer and pick accordingly.
• Color: The days of only black or navy blazers are over. Both of these colors are excellent choices since they’re timeless and will match just about anything in your closet. However, don’t be afraid to mix it up if you want something more festive or colorful. Blazers come in various colors and even patterns like stripes, so don’t be afraid to look for something that perfectly suits your personal style and wardrobe.

Most Color Options: COOFANDY Men’s Casual Blazer

While there’s nothing wrong with a classic navy or black blazer, there’s also no reason you can’t mix it up color-wise if you so choose. This blazer is available in 25 different colors, with shades ranging from neutral to light to rich. Whether you like a steely blue-gray, deep wine red, or something else altogether, this blazer has you covered. It also comes in a good range of sizes from S to 3XL. It possesses a modern single button closure, notched lapels, two front flap pockets, and a left chest pocket for small personal items. Though made of cotton and polyester, this blazer has a linen-like texture for a minimalistic and casual yet elegant appearance that is suitable for many types of events. Dry cleaning is recommended, but it may be hand washed in warm water and ironed, though it should never be bleached.

Best Formal: Cloudystyle Men’s Business Daily Blazer

Blazers are a time-honored staple of formal and office wear, and if you’re looking for a new one for either of these purposes, this daily business blazer is a great choice. The notched lapels, four sleeve buttons, and single-button front closure capture the essence of modern business or formal wear. It has a side vent to help keep you cool, two outer flap pockets, a small lefthand side chest pocket, and two inner pockets to help keep small personal items close at hand. Thanks to its cotton and polyester cloth composition, this blazer is machine washable on cold cycles for your convenience. Sizing starts at XS and runs up to 3XL, with 13 different classic and bright colors from which to choose.

Best Sports Coat: COOFANDY Men’s Sport Coat Blazer

If you’re in the market for a sports coat-like blazer that is high-quality and lightweight with a slimming silhouette, this is the blazer for you. Sharp and stylish, this blazer is the perfect blend of casual and classy that will look equally stylish with jeans and a t-shirt or dress pants and a white dress shirt. Made of a premium polyester-cotton blend, this blazer comes with an interior pocket in the lining, notched lapels, a modern single button closure, and two flap pockets. The single chest pocket also comes with a white faux handkerchief tucked inside for a classier look. It’s available in 11 colors and sizes XS to 3XL. If you prefer a regular fit to the slim fit offered by this blazer, just order it one size up from what you usually wear.

Best Slim Fit: Kenneth Cole REACTION Men’s Blazer

Here’s an elegant and formal blazer that offers an aesthetically pleasing slim fit. No matter your height or body type, the slim cut of this blazer will make you look longer and leaner. It comes in eight classic neutral shades of black, gray, and blue that will always be timeless and appropriate for any formal event. The material is polyester blended with rayon and spandex for a stretchy and more comfortable fit. The blazer has two-button closure and a fully lined interior as well as two front pockets and one at the chest. Sizes run from XS to 2XL.