Presenting Your “Substitute” Business Casual Blazer

A cardigan is one of the most essential business casual pieces

The best part about building a wardrobe centered around the concept of versatility, is that you’re able to draw from pieces you already have in your closet to give one outfit a completely different look. Nowhere is that idea better illustrated than when it comes to workwear and jackets.

For many, a blazer worn to the office is de rigueur. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t (and shouldn’t) mix it up now and then. Maybe you’re feeling a little rebellious on any given Friday. For your commute, why not trade the blazer for a denim jacket?

Simple substitution. Maximum style benefit.

As we ease into our month-long conversation about the changeable dress code known as business casual, I thought that beginning with that simple concept – the big impact a very small substitution can have – was a good place to start.

And this is especially true when you’re talking about the cardigan, a bona fide business casual essential.

| WEARING | Uniqlo cardigan, Brooks Brothers shirt, PT01 pants, Gitman Bros. tie, Rolex watch, Loafers c/o G.H. Bass | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

One of the keys to the business casual dress code is mastering that “balance point” between your regular workwear and a more relaxed version of that. That’s why the cardigan is such a great blazer substitute in this situation. It’s not as structured as a blazer, yet it still appears “put together”.

Let’s talk about fit. A cardigan is meant to fit snugly, which means that it’s going to look fitted if you’re substituting it for a blazer. Over a spread collar shirt with knit tie and a pair of sharply tailored pants, it’s perfect.

Choose a fabric weight based on the season. For the fall transition and into fall, wear a lightweight merino wool. And when the temperatures fall, break out the chunky knits, which we’re fond of wearing with even more tailored looks.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style