Blazers can often feel like a trip to snoozesville. You know the kind: single-breasted, usually black, navy, or gray, kind of blah (you're getting very sleepy. . .). Though classic and "essential" for work, these versions very easily feel stale after a few too many wears, but what other option is there when a denim jacket [1] or utility [2] anorak doesn't work, at work?
There are also the types of blazers that are having a "moment" (fashion speak for items you've scrolled past a million times on Instagram): big n' boxy fits (which aren't always flattering), super-sized shoulders (which is a bit, uh, bold), and perplexingly sexy cuts (did you know cutout blazers are a thing?!). Not exactly standard for the office and generally the kind of garment that causes quizzical stares when passing through the cubical rows.
Breathing new life into a blazer is hard! But there's a two-second style hack you can try that's not only refreshing, but flattering, too. Are you awake yet? Maybe take a sip a coffee. OK: belting your blazer. Woo-eee! You're jolted.
While you probably reach for a belt to hoist up pants or cinch a flowing dress, it's a genius move to fasten one over your blazer to give it a new look whether you prefer a skinny shape, unique buckle, or textured print. Sure, it's an extra step in the getting ready process, but a belt will add interest to any blazer-centric outfit that feels like it's missing something and enhance your figure at once (because, no, it's not enough to simply button your blazer closed and call it a day).
If you're feeling uncertain about the whole belt-over-a-blazer thing, check out 19 ultra-stylish and easy-to-re-create outfits ahead. You'll quickly realize how simple the concept is and (hopefully) become convinced to try it for yourself. Oh, and one more thing: if you're not stocked on blazers and belts, we put together an edit of under-$50 blazers to shop from the POPSUGAR at Kohl's collection [3] with stylish belts to complement them.
To quote Ciara, "Let me see you one, two step" your next blazer look.
Instead of a simple black belt, look for one with interesting detail to set off a neutral blazer.
A tonal belt with grommets add just enough edge to a workwear look.
Subtly cinch your waist with a slim, monochromatic belt.
For a just-interesting-enough pop, try a clear belt over your favorite blazer.
Never underestimate the impact of black and brown (it's definitely not a faux pas).
A skinny black belt is the perfect cinch over a longer blazer.
Black on black is anything but boring when an oversized buckle in sleek gold is part of the equation.
Sometimes a self-tie belt is all you need to define your shape.
Instead of leather, try a fabric belt for a comfortable cinch.
For simple impact, reach for a classic black belt in a wider size.
A clear belt is a trendy, yet subtle subtle way to cinch your waist (and perfect with a printed blazer).
Double up on the fun with a multi-pocket belt bag.
A medium to wide belt creates a cute peplum effect over a shorter blazer.
An extra-wide or asymmetrical belt adds interest to the most classic blazers.
What's more polished than a super-sleek buckle?
There's nothing like a multicolored belt to bring a black blazer to life.
Further proof that a simple black belt is effortlessly flattering.
A thin logo belt or one with metal detailing makes a statement without feeling over the top.
If you're into the western trend, an embossed style is unexpected over a tailored silhouette.
POPSUGAR Essential Plaid Blazer
POPSUGAR Essential Plaid Blazer [4] ($48, originally $64)
Zara Animal Print Double Pocket Belt Bag
Zara Animal Print Double Pocket Belt Bag [5] ($30)
POPSUGAR Essential Plaid Blazer
POPSUGAR Essential Plaid Blazer [6] ($48, originally $64)
Urban Outfitters Clear Square Belt
Urban Outfitters Clear Square Belt [7] ($19)
Plus Size POPSUGAR Essential Blazer
Plus Size POPSUGAR Essential Blazer [8] ($20, originally $68)
Eloquii Wide Belt With Grommets
Eloquii Wide Belt With Grommets [9] ($50)
POPSUGAR Essential Blazer
POPSUGAR Essential Blazer [10] ($48, originally $64)
Tibi Organic Leather Thick Belt
Tibi Organic Leather Thick Belt [11] ($325)
POPSUGAR Essential Blazer
POPSUGAR Essential Blazer [12] ($20, originally $64)
Lizzie Fortunato Skinny Georgia Belt
Lizzie Fortunato Skinny Georgia Belt [13] ($280)
Women's POPSUGAR Belted-Waist Jacket
Women's POPSUGAR Belted-Waist Jacket [14] ($38, originally $63)