Ask the Edit: Styling a Camel Blazer

As my depression deepened, I found it difficult to perform simple tasks.  Any task that seemed time-consuming or difficult became very hard to do.  As a result, the Three Ways styling posts went away.  Whenever I thought about writing one, I became paralyzed by the hours of potential searching, designing and writing.

I brought the feature back because a) I’m feeling a bit better, and b) you ladies never stopped asking for these posts and saying how much you missed them.

When I started writing them again, I remembered how much fun they are.  They’re a ton of work, but there’s something very enjoyable and cathartic about seeing a piece and building an outfit around it.  It’s a bit like solving a puzzle; it feels so good when it’s done.

So thank you to everyone who kept pushing for the revival of this content.  I really needed to bring it back, and I didn’t even know it.  And thank you to Gaby Burger, whose incredible blog inspired me to redesign these posts so the images are easier on the eyes. (Do not miss her Instagram, especially if you enjoy working out.)

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Hi there!

Could you do a post on the blog about different ways to style a camel blazer? I recently bought the one on the Banana Republic website and I’m struggling a little with making it look stylish. I thought it would be a good basic to have. Part of my problem is that normally I’m a cool-toned girl and don’t often wear tan/cream/brown.

Thank you!  A Reader

I love a good blazer.  And this season, it’s all about camel.  Like you, I don’t wear a ton of brown, so let’s style with some cooler toned pieces, so you can make it work with colors and pieces that you might already have.

Feature Item. J.Crew Regent Blazer

I decided to style the blazer that I own because it’s nice, warm camel that isn’t too yellow or too pale.  It’s also a good mid-price, and from a retailer that has frequent sales.  In my dreams, I own this Smythe blazer, but for now, J.Crew.

Plus-size ladies should have a look at this Charter Club cashmere jacket.  Petite or tall?  The Regent comes in your size.  Need something under-$100?  This Topshop Belted blazer is impossibly chic.

One. AG Raw Hem Jeans // Alex Mill Turtleneck Sweater // Gorjana Arc Hoop Earrings // French  Sole Leopard Flats 

This outfit was inspired by the blogger Amy Jackson, whose neutral-chic style is slowly seeping into all of my clothing decisions.  Pairing the simple turtleneck with the black jeans creates a nice foundation for the blazer.  If turtlenecks aren’t your thing, go with a simple v-neck sweater.

Two jazz it up, I added a hammered gold hoop and a leopard flat.  If hoops aren’t your thing, this simple gold studs with crystal accents are really pretty.

Two. Banana Republic Ribbed Sweater Dress // AllSaints Wool Scarf // Tortoise Link Earrings ($35) // Edelman Hilty Boots

This slim-fitting sweater dress a nice option for weekend or business casual.   The material isn’t too heavy, and the slit gives the dress an easy, feminine drape.  If you’re looking for something with a heavier weight, this Talbot’s dress is a classic (also in plus).

The charcoal grey scarf is a fabulous addition to any wardrobe.  The lighter weight of this one makes it nice for layering.  For something similar under-$50, try this scarf from La Fiorentina.

My obsession with animal prints continues to deepen, so I had to feature these Sam Edelman boots.  If they’re not for you, try these block heel snakeskin pumps.

Three. T Tahari Tonya Dress // Carriere Open Square Studs // Cuyana Work Satchel // DKNY Super Opaque Tights // Via Spiga Cassie Boots

This T Tahari Tonya dress is some of the best money that I’ve ever spent.  The dress is under-$125, has a classic shape and good-quality material.  You can wear it under any blazer or cardigan you own; it goes with everything.

For this look, I pulled the Via Spiga boots from last week and a pair of my new favorite tights, the DKNY Super Opaques.  If you prefer a shorter boot, these Sam Edelman kitten-heel ankle boots are worth a look.

This Cuyana bag is a classic that you will never regret. I own their Trapeze satchel, it costs a little less and has a clean, chic style.  As for the earrings, I spotted these lovely pave studs and had to share them.  They’re really delicate and pretty in person.  They also come in a circular stud.

Four. AG Ex-Boyfriend Jeans // Abercrombie Poplin Shirt // Navy Rothy’s Points // MK Merrick Watch

This last outfit blends masculine details to create a relaxed casual look.   I chose a pale blue poplin shirt over a basic white button up because it looks a bit more intentional.  These Abercrombie shirt is a nice option.  If it’s something you will wear regularly, this Brooks Brothers cotton shirt is a nice upgrade.

I chose a more casual jean for this outfit, something with fading and a lighter wash.  I like the ex-boyfriend style because they have a very relaxed look without being so over-sized that you look unkempt.  If you prefer a slimmer fit, try these Prosperity Denim jeans.

To finish it up, I added these navy point Rothy’s (they look amazing with jeans; it’s a seamless look).  For something a bit more casual, try the loafer.  And to play up the masculine details, I added this oversized gold watch.

{image by Alexander Andrews; this post contains affiliate links that my generate commission for the author}