the importance of being BLAZERED

Every year this time around I have to go through the same dilemma —how to look good avoiding the cold. Owning coats in several shapes and hues would be the obvious answer to this but not the practical one. Even if you live in a place where winter fancies staying for a while, spending good money on coats is not such a smart choice provided that Spring sends them to exile for six months. Why not, then, investing in a clever collection of blazers? They are warm enough worn over knitted wool cardigans, work fabulously for dressy night events and are chic as hell over a t-shirt in the warmer seasons. Trusting what I believe to be my good eye when it comes to blazers I have selected a range of colours, fabrics and styles from street-style webs, style.com and celebrity sites. Have a look.

the modern

Let me begin with the trendiest —Tartan. If the royal family has trusted in this characteristic checked pattern for decades why not use is as a twist to a classic ensemble? You can find a big variety of background and check colours.

I have spoken of statement coats before but, what about statement blazers? If you wish to select something rather unique yet timeless this is it. The key is to find a classic cut in a bold colour or unexpected print or material.

Very much in fashion this season is velvet. Like the blazers above velvet ones add a touch of distinction to your outfit and will never become demodé. Also, the particular features of velvet make your jacket look different depending on the light and colour combinations.

Just like it happens with any other garment silhouettes the blazer's is constantly updated. Its latest version is cropped, it makes it younger and slightly more casual. They are one of the best choices when looking for a versatile piece.

One of the most popular manners to wear blazers is to mix them up with jeans —kind of a casual chic. Find contemporary shapes and fabrics that work nicely with your denim and that do not call out for much attention but that are still noticeable.

the classics

If the fit is what worries you the most the best solution is to get a bespoke blazer. You are meant to dazzle the beholders in anything that has been made specifically for you according not only your exact measures but to your instructions.

Double-chested jackets come and go trend-wise but are always there amongst the classics. They make you look fantastically fit if you are skinny and enhance your shape if you are fit already. Plus, all those buttons are so easy to play around with to make the jacket more interesting.

Sartorial seemed to be something reserved to the experienced, older gentleman until Mr. Chuck Bass came around. Now it is synonym for classic edginess for any age, and I am a huge fan. Make anything Sartorial by introducing vintage pieces to your twisted classic tailoring.

[Picture credits: The Sartorialist, Face Hunter, Style.com, Men.Style.com, JustJared]

I'm off.