WARDROBE BUILDING

blazer, belt, shirt, pump, bag. wearing The Row schoolboy blazer.

I’m using last week’s denim post as an exercise in wardrobe building as I continue to develop looks around the one item I reach for more than any other – jeans. As the jumping off point, I’ll refer back to the first look in the What to Wear with Jeans post which paired a classic pair of jeans with a black leather jacket.

Swapping out the leather jacket for a tailored blazer, a feminine blouse and a thin belt projects a completely different vibe. I think most of us already have these pieces in our closet but I wouldn’t judge anyone (me) for adding more options. I like having several styles to choose from, especially in the jacket category. Start by asking if your black jacket wardrobe is varied and wearable? Do you love the pieces and reach for them often? Do they fit properly? If not, it’s time to say goodbye. The goal is to create a wardrobe that works. I’d suggest at least two silhouettes as a starting point…an oversized tailored style and a fitted, cropped, schoolboy (wearing The Row schoolboy above, also available on The Real Real). In addition to jeans, a black jacket is easy to toss on over dresses, skirts, really everything in a balanced closet. There’s little it can’t be styled with. After these two silhouettes, I’d look at collarless or a cropped boxy shape – Nili Lotan has several. Splurge on Prada or save on BASH. Those silhouettes feel current and will add mileage to the wardrobe building we’re trying to achieve.

Khaite, The Row (also look on The Real Real), TOVE

Blaza Milano, ALIGNE, Another Tomorrow

Perhaps the most modern styling is pairing jeans with a fitted collarless blazer. The Daphne from ALIGNE (above center) appears to be universally flattering and comes in a variety of colors. The price point is friendly too.

An oversized fit doesn’t have to be exaggerated. Look for a relaxed, loose shape but keep the shoulders in proportion. The Corta blazer from the A.P.C. x Anastasia Barbieri collection is pretty perfect. In fact, the entire styling above is perfect.

blazer, pumps, jeans (COH Annina – same as wearing), shirt

For another denim option, the COH Annina was a favorite style I bought in the fall. The wash is perfect and the fit is loose but not baggy. Wearing with an old Acne Studios blazer, (check out Another Tomorrow for a similar shape), and a low heel pump which balances the proportions. The Khaite pump is gorgeous but I’m just as thrilled with the loafer pump from Bally – at a fraction of the price – in black or burgundy – both 60% off.

Create a dressed up look with striking accessories and interesting textures. Wear the above heels with any other items…dress them up or down. They’re stunning. Put together a true evening look by swapping out the jeans for black trousers or a slim tailored skirt. A coat with boots and a sweater is predictable so search for one with texture and detail (above) to give the outfit a second look.

Darker denim presents a whole new vibe. The dark wash on this pant from Lemaire Fall25 lends itself well to any other black items…or grey, or navy. Of special interest is the hem and break – a detail that makes this overall look very chic. The square toe shoe making a subtle appearance under the pant needs a mention as well.

Lastly, when a pair of jeans don’t cut it for whatever reason, just swap with a grey trouser. They work with all of the pieces in this post. Another win for smart wardrobe building.