Ask the Edit: Basic Black Blazers

Hi Belle,

My go to black blazer is on its last legs.  I need something classic, maybe a little stylish, and under-$200.  I wear this jacket at least twice a week, and I’m hoping you can help me find a good replacement.

Love your blog, Lizette

Shopping for a black blazer can be a maddening experience.  There are so many choices, and almost all of them are wrong.  No, my blazer does not need gold buttons the size of dinner plates.  No, I do not think a zipper front is a good idea.  Thanks, but I’ll pass on the double breasted boyfriend jacket that makes me look like an extra in a Robert Palmer music video.

Sheesh.

I would suggest starting with a classic, mid-price retailer.  J.Crew has this Parke Blazer.  BR has a long-and-lean ponte blazer and a classic-cut blazer (also in tall).   And, of course, Ann Taylor has their classic wool and seasonless stretch options.

My choice, if I were buying for myself, would be this T Tahari blazer with a slightly more modern cut.

For something a little bit different, this WHBM jacket has pleated shoulders.  I own a blazer like this one from Zara and it’s just the right amount of extra.

Need something under-$75?  Don’t miss this Liz Claiborne jacket.  Plus-size?  Try this Talbot’s blazer.  Petite?  This Tahari ASL jacket is great.  Maternity?  Try this sale-priced twill blazer from A Pea in the Pod.

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