He’s My Mister April 2015: The Denim Blazer

Posted on April 13, 2015, 6:01 pm
5 mins

Slide

Welcome to the Pacific Northwest, home of the lumbersexual and hipster havens. Just a few years ago, who knew this place would be the center of so much it-ness?—the fastest growing large city in America, swarming with new construction, heavy traffic and an influx of worldly, stylish men. The new guys in town actually know how to wear suits and denim. They are more than a little group of walking irony and they know that Nautica Costco jean trend from the 90s is finally dead.

So what matters most to this new crew in terms of fashion? I’m seeing a smart balance between aesthetics and function. My favorite part of current men’s fashion is that—although there are definite rules about how things should fit and what should be worn—anything goes. I’m well aware of how annoying this statement is to certain types: those who can’t handle having to know the difference in, let’s say, a “good” cut or wash in denim versus a “not good” cut or wash, or the proper trouser and sleeve length, or how crazy to let that beard get.

That’s not my problem anymore. No longer is the Seattle man playing catch-up when it comes to his sense of style. A modern guy can be quite adventurous and satisfied when his options are so varied, even when it comes to hair. A shaved head, a pompadour, and a ponytail/man-bun are all acceptable and even beautiful hairstyle options. It’s a great time to be a stylish guy and even budget shouldn’t hold anyone back since there are some simple basics that will cover a lot of ground in any guys wardrobe.

This month the theme is Young Again, so what better way to keep your look youthful no matter what your age than by sporting a denim blazer? It dresses up and down.

In the street style photography of Spring Fashion Week featured in major magazines like Details, we’re seeing these looking pressed and elevated with trousers, button-ups and more formal shoes, just as much as we’re seeing the faded rumpled version with t-shirts, jeans and trainers or any combination of these works.

Valentino Two-Tone Denim Blazer

Valentino Two-Tone Denim Blazer

The Valentino two-tone Denim Blazer available at Farfetch is a magical option. Cleverly designed in blue and black, there’s really nothing it can’t do. It’s a style work horse. You can do the arty cafe hipster look, sporting sandals, a man-bun, and graphic tee while sipping on single origin cold brew…or you can go cowboy with a plaid button up, faded and roughed-up jeans, and cowboy boots. However, the simple fact that you can actually tux it up for an event is what makes this not any mere fashion item, but the ultimate style weapon to have in your arsenal. It’s seriously worth every penny.

If you’re not into throwing down that kind of change for a denim blazer, however, don’t walk away mad. The Rose Pattern Denim Blazer from 21men is crazy cool and only $54.90. For that price you can afford to buy the matching trousers. And if this last suggestion is too hip, too young and too skinny, the Jeremiah “Grant” Three-Button Sport Coat at Nordstrom is under $200 and has sizes to accommodate the beefiest men. It too has many wearable options.

Denim is always in style; it’s just a matter of knowing the right kind for the season. For women and also for men who want to be circumspect in their fashion knowledge, check out Lisa Cole’s article on denim for 2015 from January.

Rose Pattern Denim Blazer at 21men

Rose Pattern Denim Blazer at 21men

Grant Three-Button Sport Coat

Grant Three-Button Sport Coat

Sarah Caples has lived in Seattle since 2004 working as a fashion stylist for private clients. Sarah launched an art and society blog in 2008, along with a monthly salon at The Sorrento Hotel, which ran until June 2012. As executive editor of VanguardSeattle.com, Caples hopes to cultivate an informed dialog about regional culture and bring people of diverse backgrounds together in support of nonprofits, artists and community builders.

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