The longer length blazer is an example of the strong ‘90s influence on current trends. Since its fringe debut four years ago, it has gone mainstream, gaining a lot of momentum this year. So much so, that it’s easier to find a long blazer than a regular length one.
Long blazers cover the hips and bottom with hems that graze the top or middle of the thighs. The stances of the jackets are usually lower too. They can be single or double-breasted. Tailored, fluid or oversized. Solid, patterned, knitted, woven, soft, rigid, neutral or non-neutral. They can be worn as a suit, with matching pants or skirt, or as a stand-alone item. Here are some examples, many of which have an ‘80s vibe to them. The idea is to wear them as a topper with just about anything.
Generally, this trend has gone down well with my clients. Clients and friends who are tall, very curvy, very broad-shouldered, or long-waisted, are enjoying long blazers the most. They like the extra room and coverage. To my surprise, many petite clients are also enjoying long blazers, although the sleeves tend to need shortening. Most are wearing them in fluidly tailored, and fluid fits. They rock the look, and I’m pleased they’ve found a topper silhouette they enjoy wearing.
I like blazers. In the ‘80s I wore them long and oversized with hectic shoulder pads. In the ‘90s I preferred them long and tailored with soft shoulder pads. So far, I’m not enjoying the silhouette this time round. I‘ve tried several long blazers, across a range of fits, and with matching pants to create a suit, only to find myself folding under the hems to create a shorter blazer length. There is something about the proportions of the longer length blazer that weighs me down. It feels off, and doesn’t look as good as the shorter length. The stances are also often too low. I like to showcase my hips, bottom and thighs when I wear blazers, so, for now, I’m avoiding this trend.
Here’s my current collection of shorter length blazers.
I like my coats long, and my blazers short! How about you? Are you enjoying the long blazer trend? Did the length grow on you, or has it always been your preference?
