An eclectic piece never goes out of style. Take the blazer for example. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century. Although it’s true ancestry remains unknown there are many theories as to how the blazer rose to fame. One of the more popular theories comes to us from Cambridge University. Twelve students of St. John’s College, Cambridge, founded the Lady Margaret Boat Club in 1825. Members of the rowing team wore jackets made of daring colors and bold patterns so onlookers could differentiate teams as they looked on from ashore. These jackets were created solely for athletic purposes and were made quite differently than the blazer we know today. The athletic coats came unlined, had no shoulder pads and were made from hefty material to shield rowers from inclement weather conditions. The name “blazer” is said to have come from the way the rowers blazed through the water. Blazers gradually evolved into status symbols on campus. Wearing one reflected skill and competence both on and off the water, similar to a letterman jacket today. Men saw great sentiment and pride in their blazers and wore them for years following their college education.
Flash-forward to 2015. Sure, we aren’t grabbing our blazer as we head out on an athletic pursuit, but the blazer has become a fashion staple for another reason. Blazers are a great piece to invest in as a student. College presents students with many opportunities for networking and professional growth. Looking dapper is the first step in killing an interview or leading a presentation. This Fashionisto clearly got the memo. I spotted this student, dressed to impress, in class. I applaud him for picking a bright shirt to pair with his open, navy blazer. The boldness speaks to the origin of the piece. Allowing a color to pop through the subdued tones of the outfit made him stand out. He paired the blues on top with shades of brown on the bottom. He opted for a pair of reddish brown trousers and shiny brown oxfords. To top it off (literally), this Fashionisto elected for a subtle plaid flat hat. Let me just say, this was an excellent choice. The cap seals the deal. It was a great finishing touch to this classy look.
We may not be wearing our blazers for athletic purposes anymore, but the piece has proven to be quite the essential. Whether you’re heading out for an internship interview or giving a presentation in class, a blazer is the way to go.
What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Get out of your monotonous monochromatic mood. Spring is on the way. Experiment with bold colors!”
