the perfect blazer...

instant respectability...maybe it's the crisp line of the well-sewn collar...or the gentle bend of a sleeve...maybe it's the essential masculinity of even the most feminine jacket or blazer that gives us that feeling of control...

the double-breasted blazer has its roots in naval history...the navy blazer is a stylized version of the british royal navy's "reefer" jacket and was invented by the captain of h.m.s. blazer to be worn by his crew on the eve of the coronation of queen victoria...

we use the more casual single-breasted version - an american cousin of the jacket worn by english university boating and cricket clubs...to dress up jeans or maintain the formality of a pair of trousers...

jackets build up our assets and hide our flaws...shoulder pads and fitted styles give shape...bulky "boyfriend" cuts allow us to be whatever we want inside their boxy silhouette...

pippa "madison" stretch cotton jacket
bloomingdales

as for style...it depends on yours...do you want the drama of a long, fitted hacking jacket? the easy...casual feel of a blazer? the perfect line of an attention-getting couture cut? is it form-fitting and short for saturday nites?

rachel roy signature platinum tweed chainlink jacket
bloomingdales

a well-cut jacket is the essential wardrobe item...and it should have a long and active life...spend the time and the money to get what works for you and your wardrobe...if you can get only one suit...choose style over trendiness...pick a color that can work with other pieces in your closet...look for quality fabric (preferably one that's seasonless)...and something so good you can't imagine ever loaning it...even to your best friend...