What To Wear Under A Blazer (9 Outfit Ideas)

A blazer is one of the most versatile pieces in my closet, since it can transition from casual outfits to work meetings to date night. Blazers are one of the main fashion trends this fall, but they are also so timeless that I don’t consider them “trendy.” But finding the right thing to wear under a blazer can be tricky since it can easily feel bulky or boring.

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 9 outfit ideas for pairing the perfect blazer with tops that fit every occasion.

What To Wear Under A Blazer (+ 9 Outfit Ideas)

1. Button-Up Shirt

For a polished but classic look, 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.

• I pair a button-up and blazer with jeans and loafers most often for a business casual outfit.
• Pair a white button-up shirt with a black blazer and tailored trousers like these wide-leg pleated pants for a timeless, professional look.
• For a casual take, pair a loose button-up shirt with a relaxed blazer and distressed jeans. You’ll see a lot of this look in places like NYC.
• You can opt for a silk blouse like this from Quince if you want to dress it up even more.

2. Fitted Turtleneck

For cold weather, a fitted turtleneck under a blazer is chic and warm, and it works equally well for casual outings or professional settings. Here are a few style tips:

• You can wear a sleeveless option like my sweater tank or a long-sleeved turtleneck. Just choose one where the torso and sleeves are fitted so you don’t add bulk.
• Stick to neutral colors like black, gray, or beige to keep it polished.
• Pair with leggings or slim trousers to avoid a bulky look. This looks great with jeans too.

Here are more tips to style leggings with a blazer.

3. Simple T-Shirt

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. I love a classic white tee like this one or a striped Breton shirt.

• A plain white t-shirt or a graphic tee paired with a black blazer and jeans creates an effortlessly cool outfit. Pair with straight leg jeans so it looks relaxed but polished. (All my favorite jeans are linked here.)
• Opt for a fitted tee to maintain a clean silhouette or a slightly oversized t-shirt for a more laid-back vibe.

4. Camisole or Tank Top

When dressing for warmer months, a camisole or tank top is a lightweight option under a blazer. This square neck tank bodysuit is super flattering, and the straps are wide enough that it won’t look inappropriate if you take your blazer off at the office.

• Pair a satin or lace-trim camisole with a tailored blazer for a date night look.
• A basic tank top works well for casual outfits with an oversized blazer and jeans.

5. Sweater or Knit Top

A sweater under a blazer is perfect for fall and winter, but 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.)

• Pair a cashmere sweater with a plaid or herringbone blazer to visually break up fabrics so it doesn’t all blend together.
• Choose a crew neck or V-neck sweater, or go for a pop of color as another way to break up the layers.

6. A Dress or Skirt

Pairing a blazer with a dress can lean conservative or fashion-forward, depending on the type of dress and the type of blazer.

• For the office: Layer a tailored blazer over a simple black shift dress or A-line dress.
• For a night out: Pair an oversized blazer with a body skimming, silk dress.
• For daytime casual: Pair it with a midi skirt and booties like the outfit below.
• Throw an oversized blazer over a t-shirt dress or sundress with sneakers for a laid-back outfit.

7. Hoodie

For an unexpected twist, layer a hoodie under your blazer. This is perfect for daytime casual and running errands since it mixes structure with street style without being full-on loungewear. (Although I do love loungewear too.)

• Choose a neutral-colored hoodie for a streamlined look under an oversized blazer. I like tan or grey best.
• Pair with jeans or leggings (here are the best Amazon leggings).
• You could also wear it with a matching sweat set (your blazer needs to be quite oversized for this look to work).
• Accessories especially matter for this look, so it looks intentional. Wear slim sneakers, a structured bag, and a baseball cap, and don’t skip jewelry.

8. Workout Onesie

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.

• Add a hat and fashion sneakers so it looks intentional. (These are my favorite on-trend sneakers.)
• Pair with an oversized blazer so it looks relaxed since the onesie is fitted.

I’ve always styled this look with a short onesie, but it would also work with a full length workout onesie like this from Athleta or even over a fitted jumpsuit.

9. Wear the Blazer on its own

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.

• For a night out, pair a black blazer with high-waisted trousers or a skirt for a striking ensemble. Add statement accessories to elevate the look.
• For a sophisticated twist, choose a double-breasted blazer or one with unique details, such as gold buttons or an asymmetric design, for added flair.
• Make sure the blazer fits perfectly and provides enough coverage to feel comfortable and secure.

This no-shirt-under-blazer look is daring yet polished, perfect for making a statement at an event or night out.

Tips for Pairing Tops with Blazers

When styling your blazer outfits, keep these tips in mind:

Choose the Right Fabric

Match heavier blazers with lightweight tops to avoid bulk, and pair lighter blazers with more substantial fabrics like knits.

Find the Perfect Fit

An oversized blazer works well for casual looks, while a tailored blazer is better for formal occasions.

Accessorize

Add belts, jewelry, or hats to make styling look intentional, especially when going for an unconventional blazer pairing, like a hoodie or skipping the shirt altogether. 

The best blazers for all occasions

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.

The Drop Blake Long Blazer

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.

Juliette Check Double Breasted Blazer

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.

Ann Taylor Madison Blazer in Plaid

The Madison Blazer in Plaid is one of my very favorites I recently got (and it’s actually the one I’m wearing at the top of this post). The fit is tailored without feeling too structured since the cut is rounded a bit, and the plaid gives it that classic, polished vibe I always look for in a blazer. It’s perfect with jeans and a tee or a dress for something a little more dressed up.

Tuckernuck Navy Diana Blazer

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.

Amazon Tweed Blazer

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.

What Not to Wear Under a Blazer

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.

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