How to Wear a Blazer

Blazers are a timeless and versatile option for all types of wear. In hospitality particularly, you have the power to create a cohesive and professional look for your team by selecting the right blazers and styling them effectively.

Stock, a respected workwear uniform provider based in Chicago, offers a wide range of blazer options specifically designed for the service industry. In this guide, we'll explore the various ways to wear a blazer, ensuring that your staff looks sharp, confident, and ready to deliver exceptional service.

Types of Blazers

Blazers come in various styles, each with their own unique features and benefits. Choosing the right type of blazer for your staff depends on factors such as the formality of your establishment, the desired aesthetic, and the level of comfort required for your employees.

Structured Blazers

Structured blazers are designed to maintain their shape and provide a crisp, tailored appearance. These blazers often feature shoulder pads, canvas or interfacing in the chest and lapels, and a lining that helps the garment drape properly on the body. A structured blazer helps to create a more defined silhouette, emphasizing the shoulders and narrowing the waist. Structured blazers are perfect for formal hospitality settings, such as high-end restaurants, hotels, or corporate events.

Unstructured Blazers

Unstructured blazers, also known as soft-tailored or deconstructed blazers, offer a more relaxed and casual alternative to their structured counterparts. These blazers are designed without the internal layers of canvas, padding, or lining, resulting in a lighter, more flexible garment. The lack of internal structure allows the blazer to drape more naturally on the body, creating a softer and more relaxed silhouette.

Unstructured blazers often used for business casual attires, are perfect for creating a laid-back and approachable atmosphere in venues like cafes, bistros, or trendy bars. When considering unstructured blazers, a linen blazer may be a great addition to your uniform schedule. Made from lightweight and airy linen fabric, these blazers are perfect for outdoor or summer events, keeping your staff cool and comfortable

Single-Breasted Blazers

Single-breasted blazers are a classic choice that never goes out of style. This type of blazer is perfect for creating a polished and professional look for your staff, whether they're working in a restaurant, hotel, or any other hospitality setting. The simplicity of a single-breasted blazer allows for easy customization with your venue's branding or logo.

Double-Breasted Blazers

For a more formal and sophisticated appearance, consider double-breasted blazers. These blazers have two rows of buttons and a wider overlap at the front, creating a structured and elegant look. Double-breasted blazers are ideal for upscale establishments, such as fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels.

Textured Blazers

Textured blazers add visual interest and depth to your staff's uniforms, and they are made from a wide range of materials including corduroy, herringbone wool, and waxed cotton. These unique textures can help set your venue apart and create a memorable impression on your guests. Textured blazers are particularly suitable for establishments with a rustic, vintage, or industrial aesthetic, as they can complement the overall ambiance.

Technical Blazers

For a modern and performance-driven option, consider a technical blazer. Stock's Women's or Men's Navy Tech Blazers are crafted from a blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex, making them machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, and moisture-wicking. With a half-lined design, notch lapel, and tailored fit, this blazer combines functionality and fashion. It can be paired with Stock's tech trouser for a complete smart suit look.

Other Blazer Styles

In addition to the blazer styles mentioned above, you will also encounter other blazer options to suit various preferences and aesthetics. Cropped blazers that sit at or above the waist can add a modern and trendy twist to your staff's uniforms. A cropped blazer pairs well with high-waisted pants or skirts, so your staff look fashionable and contemporary. Mid-rise blazers, on the other hand, offer a balanced and flattering fit, sitting comfortably between the waist and hips. These blazers provide a timeless and versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It doesn't matter what type of blazer you decide on, another important aspect is to correctly tuck their shirt  to maintain a good presentation to clients.

Blazers with Jeans

Pairing blazers with jeans is a popular choice for creating a smart-casual look. This combination strikes a balance between professionalism and approachability, making it suitable for a wide range of venues. Stock's blazers can effortlessly elevate a pair of jeans, transforming them into a stylish and appropriate uniform option.

When selecting jeans to pair with blazers, opt for a dark wash with minimal distressing or embellishments. Straight-leg or slim-fit jeans work best, as they provide a clean and polished appearance. Encourage your staff to tuck in their shirts and add a belt for a put-together look. This combination is perfect for casual dining restaurants, gastropubs, or trendy cafes.

Pairing your Blazer with a Shirt vs T-Shirt

The choice between pairing a blazer with a shirt or a t-shirt depends on the level of formality you want to achieve. Formal or professional? Opt for a collared shirt. Stock offers a variety of dress shirts that can be seamlessly paired with their blazers. This combination is ideal for upscale restaurants, hotels, or any hospitality setting that demands a polished and sophisticated look.

On the other hand, pairing a blazer with a t-shirt can achieve a more relaxed vibe. Casual blazer outfits work well for laid-back establishments, such as cafes, bars, or fast-casual restaurants. When choosing t-shirts to pair with blazers, select high-quality, well-fitted options in neutral colors like white, black, or gray. Stock's t-shirts are designed with both comfort and style in mind, ensuring that your staff looks great while feeling at ease throughout their shifts.

Color Options for Blazers

Colors play an important role in your staff's uniform. Classic colors like navy, black, and gray are always a safe bet, as they exude professionalism and sophistication. Stock offers blazers in a range of colors such as the Women's or Men's Unstructured Blazer, which comes in both spruce and navy. These colors are easy to mix and match with various shirt and pant options, making them a practical choice for hospitality uniforms.

However, don't be afraid to explore unique colors and textures. Today's blazers include options in rich jewel tones, earthy neutrals, and eye-catching patterns. These distinctive choices can help your staff stand out and create a lasting impression on your guests. When selecting colors, consider your venue's overall aesthetic, branding, and the atmosphere you want to create.

What Shoes to Wear with a Blazer

The choice of shoes can make or break the overall look of your staff's blazer-based uniforms. Naturally, you want to prioritize both style and comfort, as your team will be on their feet for extended periods. For a formal and polished appearance, dress shoes like oxfords or loafers are an excellent choice. These classic shoe styles pair well with blazers and create a sophisticated and professional look.

If your venue has a more casual or laid-back vibe, you can opt for more relaxed footwear options. Casual sneakers or boots can be paired with blazers. However, ensure that the sneakers are clean, well-maintained, and in a neutral color that complements the blazer. Stock offers some stylish shoe options that are specifically designed for the demands of the hospitality industry.

Blazer Styling with Accessories

Accessories can take your staff's blazer-based uniforms to the next level, adding a touch of personality and finesse. Consider incorporating the following accessories to elevate your team's look:

Pocket Squares

Pocket squares are a subtle yet effective way to add a touch of sophistication. These small, decorative pieces of fabric are folded and placed in the breast pocket of the blazer. Pocket squares can be designed from solid colors, patterns, and even custom-branded designs. Encourage your staff to experiment with different pocket square folds to add visual interest and showcase their attention to detail. Here's a simple example of how you can fit a pocket square within the overall outfit.

Lapel Pins

Lapel pins are another accessory that can be used to personalize your staff's blazers. These small pins are attached to the lapel of the blazer and can feature your venue's logo, branding, or a design that complements your overall aesthetic.

Ties or Bow Ties

For a classic and formal look, consider adding ties or bow ties to your staff's blazer-based uniforms. Ties and bow ties can instantly elevate the sophistication of an outfit and are particularly suitable for upscale dining establishments or luxury hotels. Stock offers a wide selection of ties and bow ties in various colors, patterns, and materials, allowing you to find the perfect match for your venue's style. Check out this black velvet tie, which is perfect for almost every blazer outfit.

When incorporating accessories into your staff's uniforms, remember to keep them consistent and in line with your overall branding. Choose colors and patterns that complement the blazers and create a cohesive look across your entire team.

TL;DR

Blazers are a versatile and stylish choice for hospitality uniforms, offering a range of options for various venue types and styles. As a hospitality venue owner or manager, you have the opportunity to create a unique and professional look for your staff by selecting the right blazers and styling them effectively.

Stock, a trusted workwear uniform provider based in Chicago, knows how blazers fit in your overall uniform program. We can work with you to design a distinct blazer for your staff, or you can choose from the blazers already available in our shop.

When styling blazers for your team, consider pairing them with dress shirts for a formal look or t-shirts for a more casual vibe. Choose appropriate footwear that balances style and comfort, and don't forget to accessorize with pocket squares, lapel pins, or ties to add a touch of refinement.

By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to create blazer-based uniforms that not only look great but also reflect your venue's unique identity and values. With Stock's high-quality blazers and expert guidance, you can ensure that your staff is always dressed to impress and ready to deliver exceptional service for your guests.