A blazer is one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe, seamlessly transitioning from casual to professional settings. And in 2025, blazers are a huge trend, especially when worn a little more casually. But finding the right thing to wear under a blazer can be tricky—too formal, and it might feel stiff; too casual, and it could ruin the polished effect. Whether you’re dressing for a job interview, a smart-casual look, or just running errands and want to look chic, this guide has you covered with 10 outfit ideas for pairing the perfect blazer with tops that fit every occasion.
For a polished and professional vibe, you can’t go wrong with a button-up shirt under a blazer. Whether you choose a neutral color or a pop of print, this combination works for the office, meetings, and formal events.
The button-up shirt is a go-to option for its versatility and ability to pair seamlessly with both fitted and oversized blazers.
A silk blouse adds a touch of elegance to your blazer outfit. Its smooth texture contrasts beautifully with structured blazers, making it ideal for business dinners, parties, or date nights.
For cooler weather, a fitted turtleneck under a blazer exudes effortless style (my favorite is this Merino Wool-Silk Sweater Tank). It’s cozy, streamlined, and versatile, working equally well for casual outings or professional settings. Here are a few style tips:
I share how to style leggings with a blazer in this post.
For a relaxed, smart-casual look, a crew neck or v-neck t-shirt under a blazer is a great option. It’s perfect for coffee dates, casual Fridays, or errands with a touch of polish. I love a fitted tee like this Pima Cotton Blend Crewneck T-Shirt from Nordstrom.
When dressing for warmer months, a camisole or tank top is a lightweight, stylish choice under a blazer. This combo strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant. This All Day Square Neck Tank looks super flattering.
A sweater under a blazer is perfect for fall and winter, keeping you warm without sacrificing style. Opt for lightweight knits that fit snugly to avoid bulk. My favorite flattering cashmere tops are from Quince (see the rest of my favorite sweaters in this post)
Pairing a blazer with a dress creates a sophisticated, fashion-forward look for various occasions, from office wear to evening outings. I recently wore a blazer with this fun faux suede skirt from Amazon and love how they looked together.
For an unexpected twist, layer a hoodie under your blazer for a trendy, laid-back vibe. Perfect for casual outings or errands, this pairing mixes structure with street style. I have my favorite loungewear linked in this post.
For those busy days when you’re running errands or heading to the gym, layering a blazer over a workout onesie creates an effortlessly cool, athleisure-inspired look.
If you’re looking for a full length workout onesie, Athleta has a great one.
For a bold, fashion-forward look, consider wearing your blazer without anything underneath. This style works best with tailored blazers that have a high enough neckline and can be comfortably buttoned without revealing too much. It’s a sleek, minimalist option that exudes confidence and elegance.
This no-shirt-under-blazer look is daring yet polished, perfect for making a statement at an event or night out.
When styling your blazer outfits, keep these tips in mind:
Match heavier blazers with lightweight tops to avoid bulk, and pair lighter blazers with more substantial fabrics like knits.
An oversized blazer works well for casual looks, while a tailored blazer is better for formal occasions.
Add belts, jewelry, or hats to make styling look intentional, especially when going for an unconventional shirt under a blazer, like a graphic tee or skipping the shirt altogether.
I need to share my favorite blazers. While this list isn’t comprehensive, these are my current favorites (and pretty affordable, actually). The first two are the two I own and wear often, the rest are wishlist items.
This is from Amazon, and I own it in two colors. The Drop is known for high-quality items, and I’ve loved the Blake Blazer for almost two years now. The length covers my bottom which makes it perfect for leggings, but it’s not oversized, so I find it really flattering on my petite frame. I wear a size XS.
This Juliette Check Double Breasted Blazer from Petal and Pup is my other favorite blazer these days. The plaid pattern is fun but still neutral, and the double-breasted detail makes it really chic. It has a slightly relaxed look to it – less tailored than the Blake blazer, but it would still work in an office setting. Size up if you’re between sizes.
I’ve been eyeing the Navy Diana Blazer for a little while, and since I don’t currently own a navy blazer, I think I’m going to order it. I love that it has an oversized double-breasted silhouette and gold buttons. It would be perfect with light-wash jeans and gold accessories.
This is another blazer that I’ve had my eye on for a while but haven’t gotten around to ordering! It’s affordable and shipping is free on Prime, so there’s really no excuse. I love the idea of pairing a light-colored tweed blazer with spring outfits as we get closer to warmer weather.
There are a few styles of tops that don’t look as polished under a blazer. Avoid wearing thick knit sweaters, as they add unnecessary bulk and can make the blazer feel tight and restrictive. Tunic shirts are also a poor choice since their long, flowy hem often extends awkwardly beyond the blazer. Similarly, cowl necks can compete with the blazer’s neckline, adding too much volume around the chest and making layering appear messy rather than refined.
From classic button-down shirts to trendy hoodies and dresses, there are countless ways to style a blazer for any occasion. By mixing and matching tops with your blazer, you can create outfits that range from casual to professional while showcasing your personal style.
Which of these combinations will you try next? Let me know in the comments!
Shop The Post
Leave a Comment