This is a question I have been asked a hundred times, so I always make sure to explain what I am looking for when shopping for blazers with my clients. I thought I’d share with you the key items to remember when you shop for your next blazer:

First, make sure it fits in the shoulders – The seams needs to hit right on the top curve of your shoulders. This step will eliminate a blazer that fits too tight (you know when you can’t give a hug comfortably!) or to big that your frame is drowning in the jacket.

Next, make sure you can button the blazer. If you can’t it is too tight!

Then look at the stance (where the top button hits). It is an important part of how the blazer fits that many overlook. The stance should hit below the middle of the bust, if it’s higher it can create the “uni-boob” look. And this is also an area that you don’t want to gape; if it is gaping open, the blazer is too small. It’s important to get this right since the open area above the stance helps create a longer neckline which helps to draw the eye up and create a slimmer silhouette.

The sleeves should also be checked. It should hit you at the meaty part of the inside of your hand, unless it is meant to be a 3/4 length sleeve or bell sleeves.

If you are shopping for a traditional blazer, the back hem should not completely cover your derriere. A flattering length is when it cuts your bottom right in half – which gives the fabulous illusion of a smaller butt!

So remember these steps and your blazers will always flatter!

(c) 2012, Dulcet Style, LLC