How Should An Unstructured Blazer Fit?
As a hotel restaurant manager or owner, you want your staff to look sharp but feel comfortable as they greet and serve guests. An unstructured blazer or unstructured jacket is the perfect way to elevate your uniform to exude professionalism while allowing flexibility and breathability for active shifts.
Read this guide on crucial fitting criteria, style pairing ideas, fabric recommendations, and care tips to help select affordable yet quality blazers for your waitstaff, bartenders, hosts, and chefs. We'll ensure the perfect fit for seamless service and an excellent dining experience for your guests.
Evaluating the Fit
When fitting your staff for unstructured blazers, first check the shoulder fit. The shoulders should rest easily without shoulder padding or fabric strain. The sleeves should align with the arms' natural hanging angle, too.
Next, assess the chest and torso areas. An unstructured blazer won't contour the body but shouldn't billow out excessively. There should be enough room for layers underneath while allowing a full range of movement with high armholes.
The jacket length you select depends on your establishment's style needs. Shorter cropped versions suit casual uniforms, while longer lengths work well for elevated dining suit jackets.
Size up if any area seems snug, since unstructured blazers are designed to be roomy. Oversized is okay, just not too tight.
More tips:
- An unstructured blazer will not have shoulder pads or padding. The shoulders should drape smoothly without awkward bumps or creases.
- Opt for a shorter-length blazer to wear untucked with jeans or chinos. A longer length can complement dress trousers or suits.
- An unstructured blazer is designed to fit loose and relaxed, so stick to the normal size for ideal proportions. Size up only if you are concerned about movement constraints.
Style and Occasions
The versatility of unstructured blazers makes them perfect for workplaces with fluctuating dress codes. They can be incorporated into uniforms ranging from business casual to smart casual.
Pair an unstructured blazer with dress trousers and a button-down shirt for a business casual uniform. Swap the formal shirt for a polished cardigan jacket or knit polo shirt for a softer appeal. Adding tailored chinos and an open-collar casual shirt creates a professional yet approachable look.
For weekend or evening shifts with smart casual expectations, try layering an unstructured blazer over dark jeans and a button-down or nice t-shirt. Accessorize with leather lace-ups rather than sneakers for a subtle elevation.
Unstructured blazers like Stock's Men's or Women's Unstructured Navy Blazers are also great for looking sharp at special events without sacrificing comfort. The soft twill fabric and easy drape make them ideal for crews on their feet all day or night.
More tips:
- An unstructured blazer instantly elevates any outfit from casual to professional. It's a versatile staple piece for variable dress codes.
- Unstructured blazers showcase the shirt underneath, so pick a lightweight, breathable dress shirt in a fun pattern or color merino wool sweater for business casual attire.
- An unstructured blazer made of lightweight twill or linen is perfect for weddings, events, and occasions requiring lots of standing or movement.
- A properly fitted unstructured blazer complements shorts nicely. Opt for tailored chino shorts that hit just above the knee.
Fabric and Care
Unstructured blazers are often made from lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen blends, or textured wool blends. These breathe well while still looking polished.
When caring for an unstructured blazer, let the fabric guide your approach. Most are machine washable or can be gently hand-washed. Avoid overly hot water or high-heat drying, which can damage fabric integrity over time.
Light steaming while the blazer is hanging can release wrinkles between wears. For deeper cleaning, follow the recommended professional dry cleaning frequency. This varies from 4-8 years, depending on usage.
More tips:
- Pay attention to fabric content when selecting an unstructured blazer. Lightweight, breathable fabrics emphasize the relaxed silhouette.
- Inspect the lapel, vent, patch pockets, and stitching for signs of quality tailoring.
Adjusting the Silhouette
While structured blazers can be heavily tailored, unstructured versions have less alteration potential before disrupting the intended drape. Still, some minor adjustments are possible:
Shortening Sleeves
Blazer sleeves typically show 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch of shirt cuff. Exposed forearms or bunching around the wrists mean sleeves likely need shortening for ideal proportions.
Taking in Waist
If the waist billows out significantly, minimal slimming is possible through the sides. Leave several extra inches for wearability.
Any changes should not significantly impact the relaxed silhouette or ability to layer underneath. When in doubt, size up for a naturally comfortable fit.
Dress Up Your Staff with Stock
Unstructured blazers provide a polished yet comfortable addition to any uniform. Their versatile styling allows them to be incorporated into diverse dress codes, from business casual to smart casual.
When fitting your staff, focus on a loose yet proportional silhouette that doesn't constrain movement. Let the lightweight drape of the fabrics emphasize the relaxed vibe.
For quality unstructured blazers, be sure to check out Stock's selection. Our well-constructed men's and women's blazers balance professionalism with breathability, perfect for active hospitality crews. Visit Stock today to outfit your staff in unstructured blazers that maximize comfort without sacrificing presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can unstructured blazers be worn year-round?
The lightweight construction makes an unconstructed blazer comfortable for layering in spring through fall. Pair with a vest or sweater in the cooler months. Most styles transition seamlessly year-round.
What type of shirts pair best with unstructured jackets or blazers?
The best type of shirts to pair with jackets or blazers are lightweight fabrics like oxfords, linens, or textured cotton that complement the jacket’s drape. Bold prints, patterns, and lighter colors tend to look most striking.
Should we order true to size or size up or down?
Order your jacket or blazer true to size based on shirt or outerwear size. The roomy silhouette already accommodates layering underneath comfortably without sizing up.
What details should we look for in quality construction?
Quality construction is found in the details. Check that the collar melts smoothly into the lapel, the back vent lays flat, the pockets have clean welts, and the stitching appears neat yet invisible.
Can staff wear unstructured blazers with shorts?
Yes, an unstructured blazer dresses up shorts for seasonal smart casual or business casual looks. Focus on 7"-9” inseam chino shorts at fingertip length.
Should belts and shoes always match the color?
Shoes and belts don’t always have to match — an unstructured blazer allows more leeway to experiment. Contrast leather tones or metal hardware for more depth. Just keep the style at the same level of formality.